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Aquaplaning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aquaplaning

[ˈakwəˌplānɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

driving condition

Aquaplaning refers to a phenomenon that occurs when a vehicle's tires lose contact with the road due to a layer of water on the surface. This results in the vehicle sliding uncontrollably across the wet surface, which can pose a significant safety hazard. Aquaplaning typically happens at higher speeds and during heavy rain. Understanding how to recognize and react to aquaplaning can help drivers maintain control of their vehicles and prevent accidents.

Synonyms

hydroplaning, skidding, slipping.

Examples of usage

  • The car began aquaplaning on the flooded highway.
  • To avoid aquaplaning, reduce speed during heavy rain.
  • He lost control of the vehicle due to aquaplaning.
  • Aquaplaning can occur when tires are worn out.
  • Driving too fast in wet conditions increases the risk of aquaplaning.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Safety

  • Aquaplaning occurs when water builds up in front of the tires, causing them to lose contact with the road.
  • Driving at high speeds on wet roads significantly increases the chances of aquaplaning due to less time for tires to channel water away.

Science

  • The relationship between tire design and aquaplaning is crucial; tires with deeper treads channel more water away, reducing the risk.
  • Hydrodynamics plays a key role in this phenomenon; understanding how water behaves can help enhance vehicle safety.

History

  • Early automobiles did not have the advanced tire technology we have today, making them more susceptible to aquaplaning.
  • In the 1960s, vehicle safety standards began to improve, leading to better wet-weather performance.

Pop Culture

  • Aquaplaning is often depicted in movies during car chases, emphasizing the thrill and danger of losing control.
  • Driving schools and safety campaigns use simulations to demonstrate the effects of aquaplaning to new drivers.

Origin of 'aquaplaning'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from 'aqua', meaning water, and 'planing', which refers to gliding smoothly.
  • It first appeared in the early 1950s, reflecting advances in automotive technology and road design.

The term "aquaplaning" originated from the Latin word 'aqua,' meaning 'water,' combined with the term 'planing' which refers to the action of gliding or sliding smoothly. The concept became prominent in the mid-20th century as motor vehicles became more common and travel conditions varied significantly due to weather. In essence, aquaplaning describes the situation where water builds up between the tires and the road surface, leading to a loss of traction. Early discussions on the topic focused on safety measures and techniques to prevent accidents during wet conditions. As automotive technology progressed, understanding of the physics behind aquaplaning became more sophisticated, leading to innovations in tire design and road safety measures.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,082, 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.