Aerofoil (Noun)
Meaning
A device that provides reactive force when in motion relative to the surrounding air; can lift or control a plane in flight.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- Wing designs typically employ an aerofoil section, also known as an airfoil, to produce lift.
- The aerofoil shape of the plane's wing deflects the air downward, which in turn generates an upward force on the plane.
- Air moving over the curved surface of the aerofoil must travel faster than that moving over the flat surface.
- The efficiency of an aerofoil is significantly enhanced when the wing is given a smooth, curved upper surface.
- The designers of the aircraft have carefully optimized the aerofoil shape of the wing to minimize drag and maximize lift.