trailing edge

noun

: the rearmost edge of an object that moves and especially of an airfoil

Examples of trailing edge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Both the leading and trailing edges are broken into small comb-like serrations that smooth out air turbulence to cut noise and provide the owl's hyper-quiet hunting ability. New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2024 There were isotope differences between the leading and trailing edge of the moon, so the researchers took the average of the two. John Timmer, Ars Technica, 19 Apr. 2024 The Racer’s wings are optimized in all phases of flight, thanks to flaps on the trailing edge. Daniel Cote, Robb Report, 16 May 2024 Tornadoes generally occur near the trailing edge of a thunderstorm. Quinlan Bentley, The Enquirer, 2 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for trailing edge 

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of trailing edge was in 1909

Dictionary Entries Near trailing edge

Cite this Entry

“Trailing edge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trailing%20edge. Accessed 10 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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