noun
slipstream
SLIHP-streem
noun
1
The pocket of reduced air pressure and turbulence directly behind a fast-moving vehicle or object.
"The cyclist tucked into the leader's slipstream to save energy."
verb
1
To follow closely behind a moving object or person to take advantage of the reduced air resistance or momentum they create.
"The second car slipstreamed the leader for the whole final lap."
How to Use Slipstream
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe trailing pocket of air behind something moving fast, or the act of tucking into it to save effort.
Common pairings
ride in the slipstream
slipstream effect
Word Forms
slipstreamed past tense, slipstreams plural, slipstreams singular
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Etymology
A compound of "slip" and "stream," describing the flow of air left behind a moving object.