Flap: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in aviation to refer to a movable part of an aircraft wing that can be adjusted to control lift and drag. It can also refer to anything that hangs or is attached loosely.

• The pilot extended the flaps to reduce speed for landing.
• She fastened the flap of her backpack.

References the entire appendage on an aircraft that generates lift. It can also describe similar structures on birds, bats, or other flying creatures, as well as metaphorically in various contexts.

• The bird spread its wings and took flight.
• The engineers are working on a new wing design for improved efficiency.

Primarily used in British English to describe a structure designed to produce lift when moving through the air; commonly used in academic and technical contexts to discuss aerodynamics.

• The design of the aerofoil is crucial for the aircraft's performance.
• Engineers tested different aerofoil shapes in the wind tunnel.

Mainly used in American English, similar to 'aerofoil,' to describe a structure that produces lift when moving through the air. Commonly used in engineering and aviation fields.

• The airfoil's shape helps the plane lift off the ground.
• NASA is developing advanced airfoils for future aircraft.

A flat, thin piece of material that is attached to something along one edge, often used to close or cover it. It's commonly found on bags, envelopes, or pockets.

• The flap on my backpack ripped.
• Close the envelope by sealing the flap.

To bend something so that one part of it lies flat on top of another part. It often refers to arranging clothes, paper, or other materials neatly.

• Please fold the laundry.
• He folded the letter and put it in his pocket.

The part of a coat or jacket that is folded back on the chest, often seen in formal or business attire.

• He pinned a flower to his lapel.
• The lapel of his suit was neatly pressed.

A small pouch sewn into or onto clothing, used for carrying small items.

• She put her keys in her pocket.
• His phone slipped out of his pocket.

Used when something moves or swings back and forth quickly. Often used for wings or fabric.

• The flag flapped in the strong wind
• The bird flapped its wings as it took off

Used when something moves lightly and quickly, often in short bursts. Typically used for things like wings or leaves.

• The butterfly's wings fluttered delicately
• The leaves fluttered in the autumn breeze

Used when something moves back and forth in a sweeping or curving motion, often up and down. Frequently used for hands or flags.

• He waved goodbye to his friends
• The spectators waved their flags enthusiastically

Used when something or someone moves or swings wildly and uncontrollably. Often has a negative connotation.

• He began to flail his arms in panic when he fell into the water
• The toddler flailed his legs while having a tantrum