Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪlwiːl] (IPA) 
The word "tailwheel" is spelled with a "t" followed by "ail," which is pronounced like "ayl" in IPA phonetic transcription. The "w" is pronounced as a "wuh" sound, followed by "heel," which is pronounced like "hill" but with a slightly rounded mouth shape. The final "e" is silent. This word refers to a type of landing gear that is located at the tail of an aircraft, allowing it to be steered during ground maneuvers.
A tailwheel, also known as a tail wheel or a tailskid, refers to a wheel or skid structure located at the rear end or "tail" of an aircraft, specifically designed to support the weight and facilitate directional control of the airplane during taxiing, takeoffs, and landings. The primary purpose of a tailwheel is to provide stability and maneuverability on the ground.
Unlike tricycle gear aircraft, which have a nosewheel and two main wheels towards the front, tailwheel-equipped airplanes feature a single, smaller wheel positioned beneath the tail section. This tailwheel configuration is prevalent in older aircraft models and certain specialized aircraft, such as vintage airplanes, bush planes, and some military aircraft.
During ground operations, the tailwheel supports the weight of the aircraft, ensuring a balanced distribution along the fuselage. It also assists in maintaining proper ground handling by providing a pivot point around which the aircraft can rotate. Additionally, the tailwheel helps to prevent potentially dangerous over-rotation during takeoff and assists with braking during landing by distributing the weight evenly across all three wheels.
Operating an aircraft with a tailwheel demands particular piloting skills, as it requires careful coordination and technique to maintain control, especially during takeoff and landing when the possibility of ground-looping (swinging abruptly to one side) is a concern. Therefore, pilots flying tailwheel-equipped aircraft often undergo specialized training to develop the necessary proficiency and ensure safe operations.
The word "tailwheel" is a compound noun formed by combining "tail" and "wheel".
The term "tail" originated from the Old English word "tæġl", which referred to the hindmost extremity of an animal or object. It evolved in Middle English to "taile", and eventually became "tail" in Modern English. In aviation terminology, the "tail" refers to the back end or rear section of an aircraft.
On the other hand, "wheel" is derived from the Old English word "hweol", which meant a circular rotating device used for transportation. Over time, "hweol" transformed into "wheel" in Middle English and remains the modern English term for a circular component that enables movement.
