Windshield Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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windshield
[หwษชndหสild ]
Definition
automobile component
A windshield is a piece of glass at the front of a vehicle that protects occupants from wind, debris, and weather elements while providing visibility. It is often made of laminated safety glass for strength and to prevent shattering. Windshields also play a crucial role in the structural integrity of the vehicle during a collision. Some vehicles have advanced features like heating elements and built-in sensors for rain detection.
Synonyms
front window, glass panel, windscreen.
Examples of usage
- The windshield was cracked after the hailstorm.
- Make sure to clean the windshield for better visibility.
- The technician replaced the damaged windshield yesterday.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Windshields are designed to be acoustically engineered, helping to reduce noise inside cars.
- Modern windshields are typically made from laminated safety glass, ensuring they do not shatter upon impact.
History
- The first automobiles used simple leather or fabric to cover and shield drivers from environmental nuisances.
- In the 1910s, glass windshields were introduced, revolutionizing vehicle design and improving safety.
Technology
- Many modern vehicles have windshields that are equipped with sensors for rain detection and automatic wipers.
- Some advanced windshields now include heads-up displays that project essential driving information directly onto the glass.
Pop Culture
- In movies, windshields are often shown dramatically breaking during car chases, emphasizing danger in high-speed situations.
- The act of cleaning a windshield can be seen as a metaphor for clarity and transparency in personal relationships.
Origin of 'windshield'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'wind', meaning moving air, and 'shield', meaning something that protects.
- The word 'shield' has Old English roots, relating to protection and defense.
The word 'windshield' dates back to the early 20th century, originating from the combination of 'wind' and 'shield'. The term 'shield' refers to something that protects or defends against external elements, while 'wind' directly relates to the air movement that vehicles encounter. Originally, windshields were made of simple glass, but advancements in automotive technology have led to the use of laminated glass for added strength and safety. Over the years, as car designs evolved, the windshield became an essential part of the car's aerodynamics, aesthetics, and passenger safety. The adoption of the term also reflects the growing importance of automobiles in daily life, highlighting how vocabulary evolves with technology.