rudder

Everyday

1. A rudder is a flat, upright blade at the back of a boat or ship that is turned to steer it left or right. tree →
2. On an aeroplane, the rudder is a movable flap on the upright part of the tail that helps turn the nose left or right. tree →
3. (figurative) Something that guides or keeps a person or plan on course is sometimes called a rudder. tree →

In the lessons

In science and design lessons the rudder shows how a small surface pushing against water or air can change the direction of a big vehicle. In stories about sailing, pirates or storms, a broken rudder means the boat cannot be steered and is in danger. Phrases: «turn the rudder», «take the rudder», «without a rudder» (with no direction in life).

Examples

• The sailor pushed the rudder to turn the boat towards the harbour. tree →
• A storm snapped the rudder, so the little ship drifted helplessly. tree →
• In our design challenge, we added a cardboard rudder to the paper boat. tree →
• The pilot used the pedals to move the plane's rudder. tree →
• Fish use their tails a bit like a rudder. tree →
• After his gran died, he felt like a boat without a rudder. tree →
• We tested whether a bigger rudder made the toy boat turn faster. tree →
• She gave herself up to her grief, and it tossed her to and fro, as the sea tosses a ship without compass or rudder. tree →

Note

Countable noun: one rudder, two rudders. Do not confuse with «udder» (the part of a cow that gives milk) or «ruder» (more rude). The rudder steers; the sail or engine moves the boat forward; oars row it.