drag
DRAG
/dræɡ/
The aerodynamic force that opposes an aircraft's motion through the air; air resistance.
In physics, it is a mechanical force generated by the interaction and contact of a solid body with a fluid (like air).
The story behind the word. Derived from the Old Norse 'draga' or Old English 'dragan', meaning to pull or haul. In the early days of physics, scientists realized that air acts like an invisible hand pulling back on moving objects, literally 'dragging' them backward.
Word relationships
- resistance: Resistance is a broad term (e.g., electrical resistance, political resistance), while drag is specifically fluid or air resistance opposing motion.
- thrust: Thrust is the forward force that overcomes the backward-pulling force of drag.
Commonly confused with
- friction: Friction occurs between two solid surfaces sliding past each other, whereas drag occurs between a solid object and a fluid or gas.
Word family
- dragged (verb): Past tense of drag.
- dragging (verb): Present participle of drag.
Collocations
- aerodynamic drag
- reduce drag
- drag coefficient
Idioms & expressions
- drag one's feet
Example sentences
- "By retracting the landing gear immediately after takeoff, the pilot significantly reduced drag and allowed the plane to accelerate." Aerodynamic efficiency
- "The administrative paperwork proved to be a major drag on the research team's productivity." Colloquial burden
Memory hook
DRAG is the force that DRAGS the plane backward. Air resistance.
When not to use
In technical writing, do not confuse with 'friction' on solid surfaces, though they are related concepts.
Fun facts
- The dimples on a golf ball are actually designed to reduce drag, allowing the ball to travel twice as far as a smooth ball would.
Related words
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