# supercharger

/ˈsupəɹˌtʃɑɹdʒəɹ/ (US) · /sˈuːpətʃˌɑːdʒɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/supercharger
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

a device that forces more air into an engine to make it more powerful and faster. You usually find these in high-performance cars or airplanes.

For teachers: an air compressor that increases the pressure or density of air supplied to an internal combustion engine. This provides more oxygen for combustion, thereby increasing the engine's power output.

## Examples

- The mechanic installed a supercharger to give the car more speed.
- Adding a supercharger allowed the vintage sports car to compete with modern vehicles on the track.
- Unlike a turbocharger, which is driven by exhaust gases, a supercharger is mechanically powered by the engine's crankshaft, providing an immediate increase in horsepower without the delay of lag.

## Synonyms

blower

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in automotive and aerospace engineering contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.