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/ˈerəʊfɔɪl/
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/ˈerəʊfɔɪl/
🇬🇧
/ˈɛroʊfɔɪl/
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/ˈɛroʊfɔɪl/
Plural
aerofoils
An aerofoil is a specially shaped cross-section—usually curved on top and flatter underneath—that generates lift when air flows over it, making flight possible for planes, drones, and even race car wings. Think of it as nature’s clever air-powered lever: the faster-moving air above creates lower pressure, 'sucking' the wing upward.
The engineers tested dozens of aerofoil designs in the wind tunnel to maximize lift and minimize drag.
Birds’ wings have naturally evolved efficient aerofoil shapes that allow sustained flight.
This high-performance glider uses a laminar-flow aerofoil to maintain smooth airflow over its wings at low speeds.
Even bicycle wheels with deep-section rims are designed using aerofoil principles to cut through the air more efficiently.
A slight change in the aerofoil’s camber can significantly affect an aircraft’s stall speed and handling.
aēr
Comes from Ancient Greek 'aēr' (ἀήρ), meaning 'air' or 'atmosphere'. It denotes the gaseous medium surrounding Earth and is foundational in aerodynamics, meteorology, and aviation. Examples include aerobic, aeration, aerosol, atmosphere, and hypoxia (via 'oxy-' + 'aer'). Core meaning: 'air' or 'gaseous environment'.
folium
Comes from Latin 'folium', meaning 'leaf' or 'thin, flat structure'. Through Old French 'foille', it evolved into English 'foil' (as in thin metal sheet or blade-like shape). In 'aerofoil', it refers to the thin, streamlined cross-sectional shape. Examples include foil, foliage, folio, and inflorescence. Core meaning: 'leaf-shaped, thin, planar structure'.