control surface

American  

noun

1. any movable airfoil, as a rudder, flap, or aileron, for guiding or controlling an aircraft or missile in flight.

---

control surface British  

noun

1. a movable surface, such as a rudder, elevator, aileron, etc, that controls an aircraft or rocket

---

Etymology

Origin of control surface

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

"By combining theory with our experimental ability to precisely control surface terminations, we open a new path toward MXenes with improved stability and tailored functional properties," concludes Ghorbani-Asl.

From Science Daily • Apr. 4, 2026

With the LNET's expertise in light energy harvesting and storage systems, Tagliabue is also keen to see how light and photothermal effects could be used to control surface charges and evaporation rates in HV systems.

From Science Daily • Mar. 6, 2024

However, he said the timing of the FAA directive is “interesting” and that something going wrong with the control surface on the tail is likely one focus of the investigation.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 7, 2022

But the TemPad is primarily controlled through the spherical black control surface, which works as a tappable button with additional gestures.

From The Verge • Jul. 14, 2021

Others form the basis of anti-clotting drugs and of preparations to control surface bleeding.

From Time Magazine Archive