monocoque
/ˈmɑnəˌkoʊk/
noun
- A type of vehicle or aircraft construction in which the outer skin carries most of the structural load, rather than an internal frame.
- The aircraft's monocoque design eliminated the need for heavy internal bracing.
- Motorcycles with a monocoque frame have a sleek, integrated look.
- Modern race cars often use a carbon-fiber monocoque for strength and lightness.
Synonyms
adjective
- Describing a structure built as a monocoque.
- The new bicycle features a monocoque carbon frame.
- The monocoque chassis is both lightweight and rigid.
- Engineers prefer a monocoque body for high-performance vehicles.