General
rooster tail
What does rooster tail mean?
The fan of snow spray thrown up behind a snowboard when carving or slashing through powder, resembling a rooster's tail. A big rooster tail signals a hard, spirited turn.
"He slashed the top of the drift and sent up a huge rooster tail."
Origin
Snowboard/ski slang; also used in motorsports for water/dirt spray.
Frequently asked questions
What is a rooster tail in snowboarding?
The fan of snow spray thrown up behind a board when carving or slashing through powder, resembling a rooster's tail.
Is rooster tail used outside snow sports?
Yes, the term is also used in motorsports for the spray of water or dirt kicked up behind a vehicle.
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