aero push

noun

auto racing
: an aerodynamic effect that causes a closely trailing car in a race to lose traction and maneuverability because of decreased downforce on its front wheels caused by the turbulence created by the leading car
The COT was supposed to eliminate the aero push via its adjustable front-end splitter and rear wing, both designed to better control the air flow between cars.Bismarck Tribune, 3 Apr. 2007
Stock cars ruffle aerodynamics so much that cars in front of the pack handle much better than cars in the pack; the phenomenon is called aero push, which might as well be an epithet among drivers.Dave Caldwell, New York Times, 4 Aug. 2002

Word History

First Known Use

1996, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of aero push was in 1996

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Cite this Entry

“Aero push.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aero%20push. Accessed 27 Apr. 2024.

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