downforce

noun

down·​force ˈdau̇n-ˌfȯrs How to pronounce downforce (audio)
: a downward aerodynamic force generated especially by an airfoil (such as a spoiler on a race car)

Examples of downforce in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Evija’s beauty comes as much from what is there as what isn’t, as Lotus seeks to give the body a degree of porosity, where large channels are removed to enhance airflow, thus boosting downforce and lowering drag. Alistair Charlton, WIRED, 11 Aug. 2019 Generally speaking, Formula 1 teams look to minimise drag - which holds the car back - as much as possible without sacrificing downforce. Dan Cancian, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024 Bruce McLaren first experimented with ground-effect aero on his Can-Am racers in the 1960s, and the W1 applies the same principles of low drag and high downforce to boost stability at speed. Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 6 Oct. 2024 The result is a maximum downforce of 2,205 pounds—approximately the weight of nine NFL players—at 174 mph. Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 6 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for downforce 

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of downforce was in 1938

Dictionary Entries Near downforce

Cite this Entry

“Downforce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downforce. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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