noun

aileron

aileron

The pilot used the ailerons to bank the plane.

The pilot used the ailerons to bank the plane.

((an aileron)) a hinged surface on an airplane's wing. The right aileron was damaged during the flight.

Synonyms: none in common use; Other control surfaces: rudder, flap, elevator

From French 'aileron', diminutive of 'aile' meaning 'wing'.

Think of 'aile' (wing) + 'on' (small) = a small part of the wing.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.