Supercharger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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supercharger

[หˆsuหpษ™หŒtสƒษ‘หrdส’ษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

automotive

A supercharger is a device that increases the pressure of air being supplied to an internal combustion engine. This results in a greater amount of oxygen entering the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power.

Synonyms

blower, compressor, turbocharger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supercharger

Used in the context of automobiles to describe a device that increases the pressure or density of air supplied to an internal combustion engine, enhancing its power output.

  • The latest model has a supercharger that boosts the engine's performance significantly.
  • Car enthusiasts often add a supercharger for extra horsepower.
turbocharger

Specific to automotive and aviation contexts, this device uses the engine's exhaust gases to drive a turbine and compress the air entering the engine, resulting in increased power.

  • The turbocharger kicks in at higher RPMs, giving the car impressive acceleration.
  • Aftermarket turbocharger kits can significantly boost an engineโ€™s output.
blower

Commonly used to refer to any device that moves air, but in automotive terms, it can mean a supercharger, although it might sound a bit informal or colloquial.

  • Mike installed a new blower to improve ventilation in his garage.
  • The mechanic suggested upgrading to a stronger blower for better engine performance.
compressor

A more technical term that describes a device that increases the pressure of air or a gas, often used in both automotive and industrial contexts.

  • The air conditioning system isn't working because the compressor is broken.
  • Engineers use a compressor to test the pressure limits of the material.

Examples of usage

  • A supercharger can significantly boost the performance of a car.
  • Many high-performance sports cars are equipped with a supercharger.
  • The supercharger whined as it forced air into the engine.
Context #2 | Noun

engineering

In engineering, a supercharger is a type of air compressor used to increase the pressure or density of air supplied to an internal combustion engine.

Synonyms

air compressor, boost compressor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
supercharger

Refer again to the previous instance. If there is no additional context, this might happen due to user error. Essentially the same as the first one.

  • Repeated for understanding, if any variations were understood before.
air compressor

Commonly used in various industrial and mechanical applications to describe a device that converts power into potential energy stored in pressurized air.

  • The technician used an air compressor to power the pneumatic tools.
  • An air compressor is essential in many manufacturing processes.
boost compressor

Often used in the context of turbocharging and aviation to refer to a component that provides additional compressed air to improve engine efficiency and power.

  • The aircraft's boost compressor ensures optimal performance at high altitudes.
  • A boost compressor can significantly improve the power output of a turbocharged engine.

Examples of usage

  • The supercharger is driven by the engine's crankshaft.
  • Superchargers are commonly used in aircraft engines.
  • Some superchargers are driven by a belt connected to the engine.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Engineering

  • This device increases an engine's power without adding much weight, allowing for greater speed and efficiency.
  • Superchargers can be powered by the engine itself, making them different from turbochargers, which use exhaust gases.
  • They are essential in many high-performance vehicles, enabling them to accelerate much faster than standard engines.

History

  • The concept dates back to the early 1900s, with the first supercharger designed in 1905 by a German engineer.
  • During World War II, superchargers were crucial in aircraft engines, helping planes reach high altitudes where air is thinner.
  • In the 1960s, American muscle cars popularized supercharging, making it a key feature in performance vehicles.

Pop Culture

  • Supercharged vehicles often appear in action movies and video games, symbolizing speed and power.
  • The Fast & Furious franchise frequently showcases cars equipped with superchargers for thrilling street races.
  • In car enthusiast circles, the term 'supercharged' has become synonymous with high performance and racing credibility.

Science

  • Supercharging can affect an engine's air-fuel mixture, requiring careful tuning to avoid engine knock and improve performance.
  • The compression of air with a supercharger raises the air temperature, which can impact performance, necessitating intercooling systems.
  • These devices need to be balanced correctly to prevent strain on the engine, highlighting the importance of engineering in automotive design.

Economics

  • Superchargers can lead to increased fuel consumption due to the enhanced performance they deliver.
  • The market for aftermarket superchargers has grown significantly, driven by consumer demand for tuning and improving stock vehicles.
  • As electric vehicles rise in popularity, manufacturers are exploring ways to integrate supercharging concepts into electric powertrains.

Origin of 'supercharger'

The concept of supercharging dates back to the early 20th century when engineers sought ways to increase the power output of internal combustion engines. Superchargers have since become integral components in automotive and engineering industries, allowing for improved engine performance and efficiency.


See also: chargeable, charged, charger, charges, charging, decharging, discharge, overcharge, recharge, surcharge.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,560 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.