How Do You Spell DELTIC?

Pronunciation: [dˈɛltɪk] (IPA)

The word "Deltic" is pronounced /ˈdɛltɪk/ and is derived from the Greek letter "Delta" (Δ) which is shaped like a triangle. This shape is reflected in the design of the Deltic engine, which is an opposed-piston, two-stroke diesel engine. The engine was developed in the 1950s and was used in locomotives and naval vessels. While the spelling of "Deltic" may seem unusual, it accurately reflects the Greek origins of the name and the unique design of the engine itself.

DELTIC Meaning and Definition

1. Deltic is a noun referring to a type of high-speed diesel engine that uses a unique cylinder arrangement known as the Deltic layout. The word specifically relates to the British Deltic locomotive, which was famous for its efficient and powerful engine design.

   The Deltic engine is characterized by a triangular or delta-shaped arrangement in which each cylinder is arranged around the central crankshaft. The Deltic locomotive typically consists of three banks of three cylinders each, making a total of nine cylinders. This arrangement allows for optimized power output and reduced vibrations, thereby enhancing the locomotive's performance and efficiency.

   The Deltic locomotive gained popularity and recognition due to its exceptional speed and acceleration capabilities, making it suitable for express passenger services. It permitted higher top speeds and faster acceleration when compared to other locomotives of its time. The Deltic engine's design also offered advantages in terms of weight distribution, maintenance, and fuel efficiency.

   The origin of the word "Deltic" is derived from the combination of "delta" and "ic," representing the triangular layout of the cylinders and the adoption of this design in an internal combustion engine. While the term primarily relates to the British Deltic locomotive, it may also be used more broadly to refer to similar engine arrangements found in other applications, although less commonly.

2. Of or pert. to a delta.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DELTIC

• Deltaac
• Delthc
• Deltik
• Deltig
• Deltia
• Deltib
• d eltic
• de ltic
• del tic
• delt ic
• delti c

Etymology of DELTIC

The term "Deltic" primarily refers to the Napier Deltic engine, which is a unique type of two-stroke, opposed-piston diesel engine. The word "Deltic" was derived from the Greek letter "delta" (Δ) - which has a triangular shape resembling a three-bladed propeller. This engine was named "Deltic" due to its distinctive triangular layout of the cylinder banks. Each bank contains three cylinders arranged in a delta shape, with the crankshaft at the center of the triangle. The engine was developed by the British engineering company Napier & Son in the 1940s and 1950s, and they chose the name "Deltic" to emphasize its innovative design.