flaps

/flæps/
noun
  1. Flat pieces of material attached on one side, used to cover an opening or to move air.
    • The tent has flaps that can be tied open or closed.
    • The envelope's flaps were sealed with glue.
    • He lifted the flaps of the cardboard box to see what was inside.
  2. Movable parts on the back edge of an airplane wing that help control lift and speed during takeoff and landing.
    • You could hear the mechanical whir as the flaps deployed.
    • Flaps are essential for a safe takeoff on short runways.
    • The pilot extended the flaps to slow the plane for landing.
Synonyms
verb
  1. Moves up and down or from side to side, especially wings or loose material.
    • He flaps the towel to shake off the sand.
    • The sail flaps noisily when the wind changes direction.
    • The bird flaps its wings and rises into the air.
What does "flaps" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean