aerodynamics

[ air-oh-dahy-nam-iks ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. the branch of mechanics that deals with the motion of air and other gases and with the effects of such motion on bodies in the medium. Compare aerostatics ( def 1 ).

aerodynamics

/ ˌɛərəʊdaɪˈnæmɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the study of the dynamics of gases, esp of the forces acting on a body passing through air Compare aerostatics

aerodynamics

/ âr′ō-dī-năm′ĭks /

1. The study of the movement of air and other gases. Aerodynamics includes the study of the interactions of air with moving objects, such as airplanes, and of the effects of moving air on stationary objects, such as buildings.

aerodynamics

1. The branch of science devoted to the study of the flow of gas es around solid objects. It is especially important in the design of cars and airplanes, which move through the air.

Notes

A vehicle that has been built to minimize friction with the air is said to be aerodynamically designed.

Derived Forms

• ˌaerodyˈnamicist, noun
• ˌaerodyˈnamic, adjective
• ˌaerodyˈnamically, adverb

Other Words From

• aero·dy·namic aero·dy·nami·cal adjective
• aero·dy·nami·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of aerodynamics¹

First recorded in 1830–40; aero- + dynamics

A Closer Look

The two primary forces in aerodynamics are lift and drag. Lift refers to (usually upward) forces perpendicular to the direction of motion of an object traveling through the air. For example, airplane wings are designed so that their movement through the air creates an area of low pressure above the wing and an area of high pressure beneath it; the pressure difference produces the lift needed for flight. This effect is typical of airfoil design. Drag forces are parallel and opposite to the object's direction of motion and are caused largely by friction. Large wings can create a significant amount of lift, but they do so with the expense of generating a great deal of drag. Spoilers that are extended on airplane wings upon the vehicle's landing exploit this tradeoff by making the wings capable of high lift even at low speeds; low landing speeds then still provide enough lift for a gentle touchdown. Aeronautical engineers need to take into account such factors as the speed and altitude at which their designs will fly (lower air pressures at high altitudes reduce both lift and drag) in order to optimally balance lift and drag in varying conditions.

Example Sentences

New regulations in 2026 see a much more efficient engine and tweaks to the aerodynamics and tyres, which F1 and the sport’s governing body the FIA hope will improve the show yet further.

From BBC

As he pointed out, the new aerodynamics rules for 2026 will be released at the beginning of January, and he does not start work until March.

From BBC

In order to maximise the aerodynamics, the cyclors are below deck.

From BBC

“Think about the law of aerodynamics: You can’t see it, but if you correctly apply the principles, you can fly.”

From Los Angeles Times

Seidl's departure was followed by that of James Key as technical director and head of aerodynamics Tony Salter.

From BBC

Related Words

• aeronautics
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