slipstream

/ˈslɪpstriːm/
verb
  1. To follow closely behind a moving vehicle or person in order to benefit from reduced air resistance.
    • The sailboat slipstreamed the larger vessel across the bay.
    • The motorcycle slipstreamed the bus to save fuel.
    • He slipstreamed the runner ahead of him until the final stretch.
noun
  1. The stream of air or water behind a moving object, such as a car, boat, or airplane, that moves in the same direction as the object.
    • The cyclist rode in the slipstream of the truck to save energy.
    • Birds often fly in the slipstream of a larger bird to reduce drag.
    • The race car driver used the slipstream of the car ahead to gain speed.
  2. A position of advantage gained by following closely behind someone or something (figurative).
    • She built her career in the slipstream of her famous mentor.
    • The new company grew quickly in the slipstream of the industry leader.
    • The small town prospered in the slipstream of the nearby city's economic boom.
Synonyms