Autogiro (Noun)
Meaning
An aircraft that is supported in flight by unpowered rotating horizontal wings (or blades); forward propulsion is provided by a conventional propeller.
Classification
Nouns denoting man-made objects.
Examples
- The autogiro, also known as a gyroplane, is an unusual type of aircraft that uses an unpowered rotor to generate lift.
- Pitcairn Autogiro Company of America was one of the earliest companies to develop and manufacture the autogiro in the United States.
- Juan de la Cierva invented the autogiro in the early 1920s as a safer alternative to the autogyro's precursor, the helicopter.
- During World War II, the British Royal Air Force and the US Army Air Forces experimented with using the autogiro for short-range reconnaissance and observation missions.
- The autogiro has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years due to its potential as a recreational aircraft and its ability to operate safely in confined spaces.