noun
hydrofoil
HY-droh-foyl
Hydrofoil (noun) means a wing fitted to a ship's hull that lifts it clear of the water at speed to reduce drag. Example: “The hydrofoil beneath the hull lifts the boat above the waves once it gains speed.”
noun
1
nautical A wing fitted to a ship's hull that lifts it clear of the water at speed to reduce drag.
"The hydrofoil beneath the hull lifts the boat above the waves once it gains speed."
"Engineers tested a new hydrofoil shape to cut drag at high speed."
2
nautical A vessel fitted with such a wing.
"We crossed the strait on a hydrofoil in under an hour."
"The hydrofoil skimmed over the water far faster than the old ferry."
"Passengers boarded the hydrofoil at the harbour steps."
How to use hydrofoil
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA wing fitted under a boat's hull that lifts it out of the water, or a boat built with one.
When to use it
This is mainly a nautical and engineering term.
Memory tip
Don't mix it up with a hovercraft: a hydrofoil rises on underwater wings, not on a cushion of air.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
hydrofoil boat
take a hydrofoil
hydrofoil ferry
ride a hydrofoil
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ beneath the hull lifts the boat above the waves once it gains speed.
Etymology
Hydrofoil is formed from hydro-, meaning water, joined to foil.
Rhymes for hydrofoil
See all rhymes for hydrofoil →Frequently asked questions
What is a hydrofoil boat?
It is a vessel fitted with underwater wings that lift its hull clear of the water once it reaches speed.
How does a hydrofoil work?
As the boat speeds up, the wing under the hull generates lift, raising the hull out of the water and reducing drag.
Is a hydrofoil the same as a hovercraft?
No, a hydrofoil lifts on underwater wings, whereas a hovercraft rides on a cushion of air.
What is the meaning of hydrofoil?
"hydrofoil" (noun) means a wing fitted to a ship's hull that lifts it clear of the water at speed to reduce drag.
