undercarriage

[ uhn-der-kar-ij ]

noun

1. the supporting framework underneath a vehicle, as an automobile or trailer; the structure to which the wheels, tracks, or the like are attached or fitted.
2. the portions of an aircraft that are below the body.

undercarriage

/ ˈʌndəˌkærɪdʒ /

noun

1. Also calledlanding gear the assembly of wheels, shock absorbers, struts, etc, that supports an aircraft on the ground and enables it to take off and land
2. the framework that supports the body of a vehicle, carriage, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of undercarriage¹

First recorded in 1785–95; under- + carriage

Example Sentences

When pulling an aeroplane along, if possible, pull from the top of the undercarriage struts.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he touched a button and the pontoons were drawn up into the undercarriage of the craft.

From Project Gutenberg

The wheels of the undercarriage have a way of throwing up mud on to the lower surface.

From Project Gutenberg

The propeller is gone, and maybe the undercarriage is damaged some.

From Project Gutenberg

I busted a wing and wiped the undercarriage right off, and didn't get a scratch.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• frame