Biplane: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The term 'biplane' comes from the Latin prefix 'bi-' meaning 'two', combined with 'plane', which is derived from the Old French word 'plane' meaning 'flat' or 'level'.
• Biplanes were a popular type of aircraft in the early 20th century due to their stability and structural strength.

History

• The Wright Brothers first achieved powered flight in 1903, laying the groundwork for biplane design advancements.
• During World War I, biplanes were crucial for military reconnaissance and dogfights, becoming symbolically linked to aerial combat.
• Famous aircraft like the Sopwith Camel and the Fokker Dr.I were iconic biplanes used in WWI, celebrated for their agility and maneuverability.

Technology

• Biplanes often utilize a pattern of interplane struts, which provide additional support and allow for greater wing area without increasing drag.
• Despite being overshadowed by monoplanes in commercial aviation, modern biplanes are still used in aerobatics and agricultural aviation due to their low-speed maneuverability.

Pop Culture

• Biplanes are often featured in films and literature, symbolizing adventure and nostalgia for the golden age of aviation.
• The iconic image of Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis is notable, but he flew a monoplane; however, many subsequent adventures have been depicted with biplanes.

Cultural Significance

• In the 1920s, biplanes became popular in barnstorming shows, combining aviation with entertainment and fueling public interest in flight.
• The design's legacy persists in today’s airshows, where spectators enjoy stunts performed by vintage biplanes, connecting modern audiences to aviation history.

At rank #26,880, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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