Aerofoil: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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.

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.