Elevons

/ˈɛləvɑːnz/ noun

Definition

plural of elevon; multiple control surfaces on aircraft that combine elevator and aileron functions.

Etymology

From elevon (a portmanteau) plus -s (plural marker). A modern aeronautical term created by blending two older terms.

Kelly Says

The Space Shuttle used elevons on its wings instead of traditional control surfaces—this unique design helped it maneuver in the thin upper atmosphere.

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