Magnus effect

[ mag-nuhs ]

noun

, Mechanics.

1. the thrust on a cylinder rotating about its axis while in motion in a fluid, the thrust being perpendicular to the relative motion of the cylinder in the fluid.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Magnus effect¹

1920–25; after Heinrich G. Magnus (1802–70), German scientist

Example Sentences

Speaking of lofting and range, Hasbro surprisingly omitted a feature from two of these blasters typically used to improve both: a little rubber nub called a “hop-up” that adds backspin to the ball, taking advantage of the Magnus effect to fly through the air.

From The Verge

It’s known as the Magnus effect.

From The Verge

The Magnus effect has extended to participation levels in his country, with the Norwegian Chess Federation confirming that close to half a million play regularly online.

From The Guardian

“That’s the Magnus Effect,” said Martin Mortensen, a 32-year-old software developer at the bar, referring to the Norwegian world champion Magnus Carlsen.

From New York Times

The Magnus Effect, as it were, describes the various sociocultural phenomena accompanying his rise: the way Carlsen, a nebbish young man from Tonsberg, became one of the country’s most famous people; the way television producers here turned a notoriously dawdling activity into a rollicking spectator sport; the way millions of Norwegians, most of them casual or new fans of the game, have integrated it into their lives.

From New York Times