Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of aircraft engine: A "turboprop" is a turbine engine that drives an aircraft propeller.
   • An airplane using such an engine: An airplane powered by one or more turboprop engines.

Usage

• The term "turboprop" is used to specify the propulsion system of an aircraft, distinguishing it from piston-engine propeller aircraft or pure jet aircraft.
• It functions as a countable noun (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun (Engine Type):
  • The new regional aircraft is fitted with a highly efficient turboprop.
• Noun (Aircraft):
  • We flew on a small turboprop from the capital to the coastal city.
  • The airline's fleet consists of both jets and turboprops.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In engineering, "turboprop" specifically refers to the gas turbine engine design where the turbine's power is used primarily to turn a propeller, with only a small portion of exhaust providing thrust.
  • The efficiency of a turboprop is superior to that of a turbojet at lower cruising speeds.

Variants and Related Words

• Turboprops (n): The plural form, referring to multiple engines or aircraft.
• Propjet (n): A less common synonym for a turboprop engine or aircraft.
• Turboshaft (n): A related engine type where the turbine power is used to drive a rotor (as in helicopters) or other machinery, not a propeller for forward flight.

Synonyms

• Propjet: An alternative term for an aircraft powered by a turboprop engine.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning combines "turbine" and "propeller." It is crucial to distinguish between the engine itself and the aircraft it powers, though context often makes this clear.
• It is not typically used as a verb or adjective. Descriptions like "turboprop-powered aircraft" are used instead of an adjectival form.

Noun

1. an airplane with an external propeller that is driven by a turbojet engine