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Aerofoil Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aerofoil

[ˈɛərəʊfɔɪl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in aviation

An aerofoil is a structure with curved surfaces designed to give the most favorable ratio of lift to drag in flight.

Synonyms

airfoil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aerofoil

Commonly used in UK English to refer to the curved surface on an aircraft that provides lift.

  • The design of the aerofoil is crucial for the plane's stability and lift
airfoil

Commonly used in US English with the same meaning as 'aerofoil,' referring to the surface that generates aerodynamic force.

  • Engineers spent hours testing the airfoil in the wind tunnel to ensure maximum efficiency

Examples of usage

  • The aerofoil shape of an airplane wing helps generate lift.
  • Aerofoils are essential components of aircraft design.
Context #2 | Noun

in engineering

Aerofoil is a structure or surface, such as a wing, propeller blade, or rudder, designed to provide aerodynamic force.

Synonyms

airfoil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aerofoil

Commonly used in British English to refer to a surface, such as a wing, that interacts with air to create lift for aircraft.

  • The design of the aerofoil is crucial for the efficiency of the airplane.
  • Engineers tested the new aerofoil in the wind tunnel to measure its performance.
airfoil

Typically used in American English with the same meaning as 'aerofoil', referring to a shape designed to generate lift when moved through air.

  • The aircraft's airfoil design helps it achieve greater fuel efficiency.
  • During the test flight, the airfoil structure proved to be remarkably stable.

Examples of usage

  • The aerofoil design of the turbine blades improves efficiency.
  • Engineers study the characteristics of aerofoils to optimize performance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Aerofoils generate lift by having a specific shape, resulting in differences in air pressure above and below the wing.
  • The angle at which an aerofoil meets the airflow, known as angle of attack, is crucial for maximizing lift.
  • Streamlined designs help minimize drag, allowing for faster and more efficient travel through the air.

History

  • The Wright brothers developed some of the first effective aerofoils which contributed to the success of the first powered flights in 1903.
  • Nasa has conducted extensive research on aerofoils since the 1940s to improve aircraft performance and safety.
  • The technology behind aerofoils eventually extended beyond aviation, influencing designs in automobiles and wind turbines.

Pop Culture

  • Aerofoil designs often feature in movies about aviation, such as the film 'Sully' which emphasizes the importance of wing structure in emergency landings.
  • Video games like Microsoft Flight Simulator let players experiment with different aerofoil designs and their effects on flight dynamics.
  • The design of famous planes, like the Concorde, has become iconic because of its unique and effective aerofoil shape.

Technology

  • Modern aerofoil designs incorporate computer simulations and wind tunnel testing to refine shapes for better performance.
  • Active aerofoil technology can adjust shapes during flight for optimized performance in various conditions.
  • Advancements in materials science, such as lighter composites, allow for more efficient aerofoil designs that enhance fuel economy.

Origin of 'aerofoil'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'aerofoil' combines 'aero' from Greek, meaning air, with 'foil', which refers to a thin sheet.
  • In the early 20th century, the term began to be widely used to describe shapes designed for efficient airflow.
  • It is often synonymous with 'airfoil', particularly in American English, showcasing regional variations in language.

The term 'aerofoil' originated from the combination of 'aero-' (related to air) and 'foil' (referring to a thin, flat sheet or metal). The concept of using aerofoil shapes in aviation and engineering dates back to the early 20th century, with advancements in understanding aerodynamics and the principles of lift and drag.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,503, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.