ruddervator

noun

rud·​der·​va·​tor
variants or less commonly ruddevator
ˈrədə(r)ˌvātə(r)
plural -s
: a movable airfoil at the trailing edge of a vee tail designed to perform the functions of both a rudder and an elevator

Word History

Etymology

blend of rudder and elevator

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ruddervator was in 1945

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near ruddervator

Cite this Entry

“Ruddervator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ruddervator. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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