# yaw

/ˈjɔ/ (US) · /jˈɔː/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/yaw
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. rotation angle

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

the movement or the specific angle of a turn to the left or right.

For teachers: the angle of rotation about the vertical axis of an aircraft, ship, or projectile.

- The pilot corrected the yaw of the plane to keep it flying straight.
- Modern flight control systems automatically compensate for unwanted yaw to ensure a smoother ride for passengers during turbulence.

## Examples

- The pilot made a sharp yaw to avoid the storm.
- During the flight simulation, the instructor demonstrated how a sudden yaw can cause the plane to drift off course.
- Aerodynamic stability is often compromised when a pilot initiates a rapid yaw without coordinating the rudder with the ailerons, leading to a potential loss of control.

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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.