wing flap
Definition
Noun: - A movable surface on an aircraft wing: In aviation, a "wing flap" is a hinged section on the trailing edge of an airplane wing that can be extended downward to increase lift and drag during takeoff and landing. - A flapping motion of a wing: In ornithology or general biology, "wing flap" can refer to the downward and upward movement of a bird's or insect's wing during flight.
Usage Examples
- (The movable surface on the wing was extended to increase drag.)
- (Each downward motion of the bird's wing generated lift.)
Advanced Usage
- "wing flap mechanism": the mechanical system that controls the deployment of wing flaps on an aircraft.
- The wing flap mechanism failed during the test flight, causing an emergency. (The system that moves the flaps malfunctioned.)
- "wing flap angle": the degree to which a wing flap is extended.
- The optimal wing flap angle for takeoff is usually between 10 and 20 degrees. (The specific position of the flap for best performance.)
Variants and Related Words
- Wingflap (n): an alternate spelling, often used in ornithology.
- The hummingbird's rapid wingflap creates a distinctive humming sound. (The fast flapping motion of its wings.)
- Flap (n): a broader term for a hinged or flexible part that moves; can refer to a wing flap or a piece of material.
- The aircraft's flap was stuck in the extended position. (The hinged part of the wing.)
Synonyms
- Aileron: a movable surface on an aircraft wing used for roll control, not to be confused with a flap (which increases lift/drag).
- Flapper: a colloquial term for a wing flap in birds, but not standard in aviation.
Phrasal Verbs
- Flap down: to move a wing flap or similar surface downward.
- The bird flapped down its wings to land on the branch. (The wings moved downward to reduce speed.)
Related Idioms
- Flap one's wings: to make a flapping motion with wings, often used metaphorically.
- The young bird learned to flap its wings before attempting to fly. (To move the wings up and down to generate lift.)
