MAINPLANE Meaning and
Definition
-
"Mainplane" is a noun that refers to the primary horizontal surface of an airplane wing. It is the most prominent and largest portion of the wing, responsible for generating the majority of the lift that allows an aircraft to stay airborne. The mainplane is typically located in the middle of the wing structure and extends from one wingtip to the other, forming the main body of the wing.
In terms of design, mainplanes are often symmetrical or slightly cambered, with a curved upper surface and a flatter lower surface. This shape helps create the necessary pressure difference between the upper and lower sides of the wing, thereby generating lift as air flows over it. The mainplane is usually constructed with lightweight materials such as aluminum or composite materials to minimize weight while maintaining structural integrity.
Additionally, the mainplane may feature certain control surfaces like flaps and ailerons, which enable pilots to manipulate the aircraft's behavior during flight. By altering the position of these surfaces, pilots can adjust the lift and drag forces acting on the wing, allowing for controlled maneuvering and changes in altitude.
Overall, the mainplane is a crucial component of an aircraft's wing system, fundamental to its lift-generating capabilities and control mechanisms during flight.
Etymology of MAINPLANE
The word "mainplane" is derived from the combination of two words: "main" and "plane".
The term "main" in this context is derived from the Middle English word "meyne" or "meyn" which means "force" or "strength". This later evolved into the Old French word "main" meaning "important" or "chief". In English, "main" came to mean principal, leading, or primary.
The term "plane" refers to a flat surface or a level of existence. It comes from the Latin word "planum", meaning "a flat surface", which eventually became "plānum" in Late Latin, and then "plane" in Middle English.
Therefore, the combination of "main" and "plane" in the word "mainplane" refers to the primary or principal flat surface of an object, typically used when referring to the wings of an aircraft.
