Wingtip: meaning, definitions and examples

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wingtip

 

[ ˈwɪŋˌtɪp ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

aviation design

A wingtip refers to the outermost part of an aircraft wing. It plays a crucial role in aerodynamics by reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. Wingtip devices, such as winglets, are often added to enhance performance by managing airflow and reducing vortices at the wingtips. This design feature is significant in both commercial and military aircraft, influencing flight stability and overall performance.

Synonyms

aerofoil tip, wing edge

Examples of usage

  • The wingtip devices helped decrease fuel consumption on the flight.
  • Engineers redesigned the wingtip to improve aerodynamics.
  • Many modern jets feature advanced wingtip design for better performance.

Translations

Translations of the word "wingtip" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ponta da asa

🇮🇳 पंखे की नोक

🇩🇪 Flügelspitze

🇮🇩 ujung sayap

🇺🇦 кінчик крила

🇵🇱 końcówka skrzydła

🇯🇵 翼の先端

🇫🇷 extrémité de l'aile

🇪🇸 punta de ala

🇹🇷 kanat ucu

🇰🇷 날개 끝

🇸🇦 طرف الجناح

🇨🇿 hrot křídla

🇸🇰 koniec krídla

🇨🇳 机翼尖端

🇸🇮 konec krila

🇮🇸 vængja oddur

🇰🇿 қанат ұшы

🇬🇪 ფრთის წვერი

🇦🇿 qanad ucqu

🇲🇽 punta de ala

Etymology

The term 'wingtip' originated in the early 20th century as aviation technology began to develop rapidly. The word 'wing' itself comes from the Old English 'winge' meaning 'a limb of a bird', while 'tip' originates from the Middle English 'tippe', meaning 'the end or extremity of something'. As aircraft design evolved, the specific reference to the outer edges of wings became more common, especially with the introduction of advanced aerodynamics in aircraft design. The innovation of wingtip devices, such as winglets in the 1970s, further popularized the term as manufacturers sought ways to enhance flight efficiency. Today, 'wingtip' is an integral part of aviation vocabulary, symbolizing the ongoing progression of aeronautical engineering.