The word "turbocharged" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈtɜr.boʊˌtʃɑrdʒd/. The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɜr/, represented by the letter "e" with a small upside-down "v" above it (ɜ). The second syllable contains the diphthong /ow/, represented by the letters "ow." The third syllable has the consonant cluster /tʃ/ followed by the vowel sound /ɑr/, represented by the letters "ar." This word describes an engine that uses a turbocharger to increase its power and speed.
Turbocharged refers to a specific method of engine enhancement and performance enhancement in automobiles. It is an adjective used to describe the technology and process where an engine is fitted with a turbocharger or a forced induction system. A turbocharger is a device that is driven by the exhaust gases of an engine and increases the overall efficiency and power output of the engine by pumping compressed air into the combustion chamber.
The concept of turbocharging involves the utilization of the otherwise waste heat energy from the exhaust gases, which is used to drive a turbine. This turbine, in turn, operates a compressor that forces more air into the engine's intake manifold. By increasing the air flow into the combustion chamber, the air-fuel mixture becomes denser, resulting in improved combustion efficiency and an increase in power output.
Turbocharged engines are known for their ability to deliver enhanced performance, as they generate higher levels of horsepower and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines. The term "turbocharged" is often associated with increased acceleration, improved fuel efficiency, and higher top speeds in vehicles. Sports cars, high-performance vehicles, and even some economy cars utilize turbocharging technology to achieve a balance between power and fuel economy.
In broader usage, "turbocharged" can also be used metaphorically to describe anything that is intensified, increased, or amplified rapidly. This can refer to various aspects beyond automotive contexts, such as a "turbocharged economy" indicating swift growth or a "turbocharged process" highlighting an accelerated and expedited procedure.
The word "turbocharged" is derived from two components: "turbo" and "charged".
The term "turbo" originates from the word "turbine", which comes from the Latin word "turbinem", meaning "spinning top". In the early 20th century, engineers began using the word "turbo" to refer specifically to gas turbines, which are engines that use the energy released from a rapidly rotating turbine to compress the intake air of an internal combustion engine. Today, "turbo" generally denotes anything related to forced induction or increased power output in an internal combustion engine.
The word "charged" refers to the process of compressing the intake air of an engine with a supercharger or turbocharger. It comes from the Old French word "charger", meaning "to load" or "to fill".