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airfoil

[ˈɛrˌfɔɪl]

airfoil Definition

a surface, such as a wing, rudder, or stabilizer, that is designed to aid in lifting or controlling an aircraft by making use of the air currents around it.

Using airfoil: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "airfoil" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The airplane's airfoils help it stay aloft.

  • Example

    The design of the airfoil affects the performance of the aircraft.

  • Example

    The engineers tested different airfoil shapes in a wind tunnel.

airfoil Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for airfoil

Phrases with airfoil

  • NACA airfoil

    an airfoil shape developed by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) that has a precise mathematical formula and is widely used in aircraft design

    Example

    The NACA airfoil is known for its high lift-to-drag ratio.

  • an airfoil shape that is identical above and below its chord line, producing no lift at zero angle of attack

    Example

    A symmetrical airfoil is often used in aerobatic aircraft because it allows for inverted flight.

  • an airfoil shape that has a curved upper surface and a flat or slightly curved lower surface, producing lift even at zero angle of attack

    Example

    A cambered airfoil is commonly used in general aviation aircraft because it provides good lift and stability.

Origins of airfoil

from air + foil, meaning 'something that serves as a contrast to or accent for something else'

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Summary: airfoil in Brief

An 'airfoil' [ˈɛrˌfɔɪl] is a surface, such as a wing or rudder, that is designed to aid in lifting or controlling an aircraft by making use of the air currents around it. The design of the airfoil affects the performance of the aircraft, and there are different types of airfoils, such as the NACA airfoil, symmetrical airfoil, and cambered airfoil. 'Airfoil' is synonymous with 'wing,' 'blade,' and 'vane.'