control surface

noun

: a movable airfoil designed to change the attitude of an aircraft

Examples of control surface 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.
An additional capacitive control surface sits on the outside face of the right earcup. Mark Knapp, PC Magazine, 8 May 2026 That shift raises the stakes: when AI can act, your team’s confidence in leadership intent becomes the true control surface. Gerald J. Leonard, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2026 An onboard computer constantly adjusts the foil angles to hold a smooth ride even in choppy conditions using the same basic principle as the control surfaces on a fighter jet. Omar Kardoudi april 09, New Atlas, 9 Apr. 2026 This unit links the guidance computer to the missile’s control surfaces, enabling precise maneuvering in flight. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for control surface

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of control surface was in 1910

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Control surface.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/control%20surface. Accessed 16 May. 2026.

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