Wingspread Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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wingspread
[หwษชลหsprษd ]
Definition
bird anatomy
Wingspread refers to the distance between the tips of a bird's wings when they are fully extended. It is an important measurement in ornithology as it can indicate the size and wingspan of various bird species. The wingspread can vary significantly among birds, with larger birds like albatrosses having an impressive wingspread compared to smaller species like finches.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The wingspread of the albatross can reach up to 12 feet.
- Ornithologists often measure the wingspread of birds in flight.
- The wingspread of the eagle allows for efficient soaring.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Bird species vary greatly in wingspread, which influences their flying style and habitat; for example, albatrosses have the largest wingspread of any bird, aiding their long-distance flights.
- In ecology, wingspread is crucial for understanding predator-prey interactions; larger wings can enhance evasion from predators.
Aviation
- In aircraft design, wingspread affects aerodynamics, with broader wings generally providing better lift but increased drag.
- Historical developments in aeronautics have emphasized optimizing wingspread for various flight missions, contributing to modern aircraft efficiency.
Cultural Significance
- Symbols of freedom and aspiration often use the image of outstretched wings, embodying the idea of breaking boundaries.
- Art and literature frequently depict wingspread to evoke feelings of adventure or liberation, often linked to themes of flight and journey.
Physics
- The principles of flight reveal that the ratio of wingspread to body size can significantly affect the energy efficiency of flying animals and machines.
- Understanding the mechanics behind wingspread contributes to innovations in drone technology, enhancing stability and maneuverability.
Origin of 'wingspread'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'wing', derived from Old English 'wenge', relating to the limbs of birds and flying creatures, and 'spread', which is based on Old English 'spraedan', meaning to stretch out.
- Often used in contexts related to birds and aviation, emphasizing the importance of wing size in flight capabilities.
The term 'wingspread' is derived from the combination of two English words: 'wing' and 'spread'. The word 'wing' has its origins in the Old English 'wenge', which relates to the idea of something that is spread out or extended. 'Spread' comes from the Old English 'spriวฃdan', meaning to extend over a wider area. The compounding of these two words to form 'wingspread' reflects the basic idea of measuring or describing the extent of wings when fully extended. Historically, the concept has been utilized in both practical and scientific contexts, especially in the study of birds, where understanding wingspread is crucial for taxonomy, behavior studies, and ecological assessments.