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turbocharger

turbocharger

5.5
Something that makes an activity much faster or more successful
  • noun
  • /ˈtɜːrboʊˌtʃɑːrɡər/
translation icon : impulsor
  • It's like putting a turbocharger on an old beater.

And it's almost like this fear is somewhat like a turbocharger on me.

Examples

  • Introducing automation into the production line served as a turbocharger, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

  • OK, Leverage is basically it's it's putting a turbocharger on your investments.

  • The new marketing strategy acted as a turbocharger for the company's sales, significantly boosting revenue.

  • His innovative ideas provided a turbocharger for the team's performance, leading to impressive results in competition.

Synonyms

turbo
vsturbocharger
  • Specialized
21 3.9

A device that forces extra air into an engine to increase power

is the general figurative term for a large increase in power or speed
supercharger
vsturbocharger
  • Specialized
6 6.8

A machine that forces more air into an engine to make it more powerful

is used broadly to mean a strong or rapid increase in effectiveness
turbocompressor
vsturbocharger
  • Specialized
6.7

A machine with a spinning part that increases air pressure to help engines work better

is a general figurative booster rather than a specific mechanical device

How Effective

turbocharger
5.5
catalyst
55 5.0
boost
153 2.7
aid
203 1.0

Surface Forms

turbocharger singular
turbochargers plural

Morphology

turbocharger = turbo + charger (semi-transparent) = turbo + charger

The figurative sense is derived directly from the literal device metaphor, so the morphological composition is clear but the meaning is metaphorical rather than literal.

Etymology

The word turbocharger comes from turbo ('whirl' or fast spin) and charger ('one that gives power'), so it suggests a quick, strong boost; that's why we call anything that greatly speeds up work or performance a 'turbocharger'.