downforce

noun

down·​force ˈdau̇n-ˌfȯrs How to pronounce downforce (audio)
: a downward aerodynamic force generated especially by an airfoil (such as a spoiler on a race car)

Examples of downforce in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Upgrading to the Thrust Variant requires a $245,000 follow-up payment and adds SpaceX cold-gas rear thrusters alongside an active multi-mode fan system for downforce, cutting acceleration down to under a second. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2026 The Roadster is an electric car with a whole new design, active aerodynamics, a powerful underbody fan system that generates a huge amount of suction downforce, and cold-gas thrusters built using SpaceX's rocket science know-how. — New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2026 The vehicle generates over 4,700kg of downforce at the peak of the stunt, using a multi-mode fan and ground-sealing system to draw air out and create suction on the road. — James Peckham, PC Magazine, 16 Oct. 2026 This car always feels planted, glued to the track, thanks in large part to the aero package capable of generating more than 6,000 pounds of downforce—double that of a Formula 1 racer at speed. — Sean Evans, Robb Report, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for downforce

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of downforce was in 1938

Rhymes for downforce

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Browse Nearby Words

downfold
downforce
down for the count
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Cite this Entry

“Downforce.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downforce. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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