Definition

A part of an airplane wing that helps control its movement by acting as both a flap and an aileron.

Example

The pilot adjusted the flaperon to improve the aircraft's stability during flight.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a flaperon?

Yeah, it's that part on an airplane wing, right?

Exactly! It combines the functions of both a flap and an aileron.

That's pretty cool; I didn't know it had such an important role.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flaperon is a blend of "flap" (from Middle English *flappen*, meaning to move or swing loosely) and "-eron" (a suffix used in aeronautics to denote a type of control surface). The word refers to a type of control surface on an aircraft that combines the functions of a flap and an aileron, allowing for improved maneuverability.

Memory Tip

Think of 'flap' as moving or swinging loosely, and '-eron' as a part of an aircraft. This helps you remember that a flaperon is a control surface that flaps to aid in flying.

Visually Confused Words