tail fin

American  

noun

1. caudal fin.

2. Automotive.  fin17

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Etymology

Origin of tail fin

First recorded in 1675–85

Example Sentences

Meanwhile, Michael Giacchino’s score soars between bleats of triumph and barbershop-chorus charm, a combination that can sound like an automobile show unveiling the first convertible with tail fins.

From Los Angeles Times

The model, which applies to many fish species, simulates one to nine mackerel being propelled forward by their tail fins.

From Science Daily

The rudder is a movable panel on a jet’s vertical tail fin that can deflect to one side so the air pressure on the panel turns the plane’s nose to the right or left.

From Seattle Times

He was fired last year for allegedly failing to conduct inspections that were his responsibility, resulting in faulty tail fin fittings being shipped to Boeing.

From Seattle Times

If the door plug that blew off had struck and damaged the horizontal tail or the tail fin, the pilots could have lost control and the jet could have crashed.

From Seattle Times