wind tunnel

noun

: a tunnellike passage through which air is blown at a known velocity to investigate air flow around an object (such as an airplane part or model) placed in the passage

Examples of wind tunnel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Then they get geared up in a helmet and flight suit before getting into a wind tunnel that simulates the action of skydiving. Carlos Rico, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 May 2024 The crescent shape of the new condo tower and its jarring proximity, combined with the formerly soothing prevailing breeze, creates a wind tunnel that rakes across the north side of Building 3 and the driveway entrance, knocking down patio furniture, annihilating hairdos and slamming car doors. Linda Robertson, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for wind tunnel 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'wind tunnel.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wind tunnel was in 1911

Dictionary Entries Near wind tunnel

Cite this Entry

“Wind tunnel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wind%20tunnel. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

wind tunnel

noun
: a passage like a tunnel through which air is blown at a known speed to investigate air flow around an object (as an airplane part or model) placed in the passage

More from Merriam-Webster on wind tunnel

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!