slipstream

[ slip-streem ]
/ ˈslɪpˌstrim /

noun Also slip stream.

Aeronautics. the airstream pushed back by a revolving aircraft propeller. Compare backwash(def 2), wash(def 31).
the airstream generating reduced air pressure and forward suction directly behind a rapidly moving vehicle.

verb (used without object)

to ride in the slipstream of a fast-moving vehicle.

Origin of slipstream

First recorded in 1910–15; slip1 + stream

Words nearby slipstream

slipsheet, slipshod, slipslop, slipsole, slipstick, slipstream, slipstreaming, slipt, slipware, slipway, slit

Example sentences from the Web for slipstream

British Dictionary definitions for slipstream

slipstream
/ (ˈslɪpˌstriːm) /

noun

Also called: airstream, race
  1. the stream of air forced backwards by an aircraft propeller
  2. a stream of air behind any moving object

verb

motor racing to follow (another car, etc) closely in order to take advantage of the decreased wind resistance immediately behind it