windage

[ win-dij ]

noun

1. the influence of the wind in deflecting a missile.
2. the amount of such deflection.
3. the degree to which a gunsight must be adjusted to correct for windage.
4. a difference between the diameter of a projectile and that of the gun bore, for the escape of gas and the prevention of friction.
5. Nautical. that portion of a vessel's surface upon which the wind acts.
6. Machinery. friction between a rotor and the air within its casing, as in an electric generator.
7. Electricity. the resisting influence of air against the rotating armature of a dynamo, creating a power loss.

windage

/ ˈwɪndɪdʒ /

noun

1. 1. a deflection of a projectile as a result of the effect of the wind
   2. the degree of such deflection
   3. the extent to which it is necessary to adjust the wind gauge of a gun sight in order to compensate for such deflection
2. the difference between a firearm's bore and the diameter of its projectile
3. nautical the exposed part of the hull of a vessel responsible for wind resistance
4. the retarding force upon a rotating machine resulting from the drag of the air

Word History and Origins

Origin of windage¹

First recorded in 1700–10; wind ¹ + -age

Example Sentences

You have learned to estimate distances, however, even in this rare atmosphere, and possess good judgment as to windage.

From Project Gutenberg

The slide should be drawn all the way back to secure full advantage of the windage.

From Project Gutenberg

The wind gauge is adjusted by means of the windage screw at the right front end of the base of the sight.

From Project Gutenberg

Keep a written record of the weather conditions and the corresponding elevation and windage for each day's firing.

From Project Gutenberg

The cloud face was stirring, swirling, tearing open from the rush of their opposing windage.

From Project Gutenberg