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Turboprop Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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turboprop

[ˈtɜːrboʊprɒp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

aviation technology

A turboprop is a type of aircraft propulsion system that uses a gas turbine engine to drive a propeller. This engine design is efficient for short-haul and regional flights, where speed and fuel economy are essential. Turboprops are known for their ability to take off and land on shorter runways compared to jet engines.

Synonyms

propeller engine, turbine engine, turbo-propeller.

Examples of usage

  • Many regional airlines use turboprop planes for short flights.
  • The new turboprop aircraft features improved fuel efficiency.
  • Turboprops are often preferred for accessing remote areas.
  • Pilots appreciate the responsiveness of turboprop engines.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science and Technology

  • Turboprop engines are more fuel-efficient than pure jet engines at lower speeds and altitudes, making them ideal for regional flights.
  • They can operate from shorter runways compared to jets, helping connect smaller airports with major hubs.

History

  • The first successful turboprop engine was developed by British engineer Frank Whittle in the 1930s.
  • Turboprop technology became prominent in commercial aviation in the 1950s, leading to the rise of commuter flights.

Pop Culture

  • Turboprop planes often feature in movies that show small-town adventures or heroic rescues, emphasizing their utility.
  • Several famous aircraft, like the Beechcraft King Air, have become icons in aviation culture as reliable turboprop planes.

Literature

  • In numerous novels and stories, turboprop planes symbolize efficiency and connectivity between remote places.
  • Aviation enthusiasts often write about turboprops in aviation magazines, highlighting their roles in shaping modern flight.

Origin of 'turboprop'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'turbo,' referring to turbocharged engines, with 'prop,' short for propeller.
  • The term emerged in the 1940s as aviation technology advanced, notably during World War II.

The term 'turboprop' is a portmanteau that combines 'turbine' and 'propeller'. The development of turboprop engines began in the early 1940s as engineers recognized the need for more efficient aircraft engines that could power propellers while utilizing the advantages of gas turbine technology. Turboprops quickly gained popularity in the post-World War II aviation industry for regional and commuter flights due to their ability to operate efficiently at lower speeds and altitudes. Unlike pure jet engines, turboprops deliver better performance in takeoff and landing under specific conditions, making them particularly suitable for smaller airports. The design has evolved over the decades, fueling advancements in fuel efficiency, engine reliability, and overall performance in the modern aviation landscape.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,702, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.