controllable-pitch

[ kuhn-troh-luh-buhl-pich ]

adjective

1. (of a marine or aircraft propeller) having blades whose pitch can be changed during navigation or flight; variable-pitch.

Word History and Origins

Origin of controllable-pitch¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

The multiblade, controllable-pitch screw propeller will be encased in a meticulously designed shroud to reduce noise and allow the boat to sneak up on its prey.

From Time Magazine Archive

The upshot: patents on an electric controllable-pitch propeller, for which he draws royalties from such war-busy plants as Curtiss-Wright and Britain's Bristol Aeroplane Co.

From Time Magazine Archive

Or any of several companies for perfection of a controllable-pitch propeller.

From Time Magazine Archive

Controllable-pitch feathering props are increasingly common on large sailboats, along with non-feathering controllable pitch props installed on many motoryachts.

From Time Magazine Archive