Aquaplane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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aquaplane
[ˈakwəˌplān ]
Definitions
water surface
To aquaplane means to lose traction on a wet surface, causing a vehicle's tires to skim over the water instead of maintaining contact with the road. This often happens during rainy conditions, leading to a loss of control. Drivers are advised to reduce speed or gently steer into the skid to regain traction. Aquaplaning can be dangerous, especially at high speeds.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The car began to aquaplane on the slick pavement.
- He felt the tires aquaplane as he drove through the flooded street.
water sport
An aquaplane is a type of water sports equipment that is towed behind a boat. It is designed for riders to stand on and glide across the water's surface. The action of riding an aquaplane can provide a thrilling experience similar to surfing or waterskiing. Safety gear is recommended to prevent injuries during use.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He enjoyed riding the aquaplane during the summer.
- Aquaplanes are popular for recreational water sports.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Sports
- Aquaplaning is often used in recreational sports but also shows up in competitive water sports events.
- It can be found in wakeboarding and water skiing, where riders use similar techniques.
- The boards have evolved from simple wooden designs to advanced materials for better performance and safety.
Science
- Aquaplaning occurs when the board creates a lift, similar to how airplanes fly, allowing it to glide smoothly over water.
- Physics plays a big role in aquaplaning; the interaction between water and the board affects speed and maneuverability.
- Surface tension of water helps in reducing drag when the board moves quickly on the surface.
Cultural References
- Aquaplaning has appeared in popular films and TV shows, often showcasing thrilling adventure scenes.
- Music and art often reflect a carefree and adventurous lifestyle associated with water sports.
- Various aquaplaning competitions are held worldwide, attracting enthusiasts and spectators alike.
Safety
- Safety gear such as life jackets is important while aquaplaning to prevent accidents.
- Understanding water conditions is crucial, as rough waters can lead to dangerous situations.
- Early learning of balance and control is key for beginners to enjoy and remain safe on the water.
Origin of 'aquaplane'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'aquaplane' comes from the Latin 'aqua' meaning water, combined with 'plane', which refers to a flat surface.
- It gained popularity in the early 20th century, during the age of speed and water sports.
- Similar inventions can be traced back to the 1920s when people began innovating ways to ride on water.
The term 'aquaplane' first appeared in the early 20th century, derived from the combination of the Latin word 'aqua', meaning water, and the English word 'plane', which refers to a flat surface. The concept of aquaplaning as a driving hazard became more recognized with the increase in automobile travel. Initially, it described the phenomenon of vehicles losing traction on wet roads. Over time, the term evolved to also denote a water recreational device, capturing the thrill of gliding over water. The term reflects the dual nature of the word: both a cautionary driving term and a fun watersport, illustrating the diverse ways humans interact with water.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #42,379, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.