Skip to main content
boattail

boattail

1 7.5
A rear part that narrows like the back of a boat to reduce air drag
  • noun
  • /ˈboʊˌteɪl/
  • Specialized
: cola de bote
  • The new model's boattail shape not only looks sleek but also helps to improve fuel efficiency by minimizing air resistance.
  • boattail Buick
  • boattail Riviera
  • boattail Speedster

Examples

  • Sniper rounds .308 cal, 160 gr boattail.

    Blog text (9)
  • The boattail design of the vehicle enhances its aerodynamics, allowing it to cut through the air more efficiently.

  • Many sports cars feature a boattail rear end to improve speed and reduce drag during races.

Surface Forms

boattail singular
boattails plural

Morphology

boattail = boat + tail (transparent) = boat + tail

A straightforward compound naming a tapered rear end resembling a boat's stern; learners can infer the meaning from the parts.

Etymology

Boattail comes from boat + tail, named after a boat's narrow rear where the shape tapers to move easily, and 'tail' means the back. So a boattail on a vehicle or bullet is the narrowed back part that helps reduce air resistance.