What does subsonic mean?
The term subsonic describes speeds or velocities that are less than the speed of sound, which is approximately 768 miles per hour (mph) or 1,236 kilometers per hour (km/h) at sea level. In aerodynamics and physics, subsonic speeds are crucial for designing aircraft and vehicles that operate efficiently and safely below the sonic threshold. Subsonic flight is characterized by smooth, quiet operation without the shockwaves and sonic booms associated with supersonic flight. This term is widely used in technical fields such as aerospace engineering and physics, but its applications extend to everyday language when describing anything that moves at speeds below the speed of sound.
adjectiveHaving a speed less than the speed of sound. Subsonic refers to speeds or velocities that are below the threshold of sonic speeds, typically used in aerodynamics and physics.
- Speed or velocity below the speed of sound
- Aircraft or vehicles operating at subsonic speeds
"The subsonic aircraft flew smoothly through the clouds without producing a sonic boom."
"The subsonic wind tunnel was used for testing aircraft models."
"The new subsonic jet was designed for fuel efficiency and quiet operation."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of subsonic
The word subsonic is derived from the prefix 'sub-' meaning 'below' or 'under' and 'sonic' relating to sound. The term has its roots in the Latin word 'sonus,' meaning sound. The concept of subsonic speeds emerged with the study of aerodynamics and the exploration of flight.
How subsonic is actually used
Often used in technical contexts such as aerodynamics, physics, and engineering. Can also be used more broadly to describe anything that operates at speeds below the sound barrier.