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 fans produce 4,000 lb (1,814 kg) of downforce at a dead stop, giving it about as much grip as a gecko on sticky paper. New Atlas, 14 Apr. 2025 The lifting of the flap, controlled by the driver, reduces rear downforce and provides a momentary boost. John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Apr. 2025 While true enough – the simple math is that a car would need to generate more downforce than its own weight – proving this in the real world is tricky. Alistair Charlton, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025 With insufficient downforce at the rear, his Alpine A525 F1 car spun wildly and hit the barriers. Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Apr. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Downforce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downforce. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

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