slipstream

[ slip-streem ]

noun

1. Aeronautics. the airstream pushed back by a revolving aircraft propeller. Compare backwash ( def 2 ), wash ( def 31 ).
2. the airstream generating reduced air pressure and forward suction directly behind a rapidly moving vehicle.

verb (used without object)

1. to ride in the slipstream of a fast-moving vehicle.

slipstream

/ ˈslɪpˌstriːm /

noun

1. Also calledairstreamrace
   1. the stream of air forced backwards by an aircraft propeller
   2. a stream of air behind any moving object

verb

1. motor racing to follow (another car, etc) closely in order to take advantage of the decreased wind resistance immediately behind it

Word History and Origins

Origin of slipstream¹

First recorded in 1910–15; slip ¹ + stream

Example Sentences

But Mexico has one of the the longest runs to the first corner of any circuit in F1 and sometimes starting behind can be an advantage because of the powerful slipstream effect.

From BBC

Cashmore came third after being given a one-minute penalty for a "drafting violation" - entering the slipstream of a racer in front, without intending to overtake.

From BBC

Smith bumped along in Brook’s slipstream, his first 30 runs coming from 40 deliveries including a straight six off Jayasuriya.

From BBC

So what does slow-growth Brazil gain from being dragged along in China's economic slipstream?

From BBC

Because while it's easier to follow in this new generation of cars, they also produce less drag, and therefore less slipstream, so it's not necessarily any easier to overtake.

From BBC