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hydrodynamic

C2
Uncommon

Pronunciation

UK

  • /hˌaɪdrədaɪnˈæmɪk/

US

  • /hˌaɪdrədaɪnˈæmɪk/

Meanings

Adjective

  1. shaped to move through water or another liquid with little resistance

  2. relating to the motion and forces of liquids

Beyond the definition

Imagine a sleek dolphin gliding through the ocean, or a well-made racing boat cutting through waves. Both look smooth and easy in the water. That is the idea behind something hydrodynamic: it is shaped or designed so water can move around it with less resistance.

Think of it this way: a flat, boxy object pushes against the water and slows down. A smooth, curved shape lets water pass more easily. That shape is more hydrodynamic. You will often hear the word when people talk about boats, submarines, swimwear, or even the bodies of fish and dolphins.

Examples

  1. 1

    Swimming

    The swim coach explained how a more hydrodynamic body position helps you move faster through the water.

  2. 2

    Boat design

    Engineers gave the new kayak a hydrodynamic shape to reduce drag.

  3. 3

    Flood modeling

    The researchers used a hydrodynamic model to predict how the floodwater would spread.

See also

Similar

  • fluid-dynamic
  • fluid-dynamical

Shades of meaning

Contrast

Do not confuse

Used with (collocations)

  • hydrodynamic forces
  • hydrodynamic drag
  • hydrodynamic model
  • hydrodynamic stability

Word family

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Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • hydrodynamicadjective