streamline

Everyday

1. To streamline something is to give it a smooth, slim shape so it moves easily through air or water. tree →
2. To streamline a job or a system is to make it simpler and quicker by removing unneeded steps. tree →
3. (science, noun) A streamline is a line showing the path air or water takes as it flows around something. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons on forces, a streamlined shape reduces air resistance or water resistance (drag): fish, birds, racing cars and rockets are streamlined. In everyday and business life «streamline the process» means make it easier and faster. Phrases: «streamlined shape», «streamline the process».

Examples

• A dolphin's body is streamlined so it swims fast. tree →
• Racing cars are streamlined to cut through the air. tree →
• We made streamlined paper boats and tested them in the water tray. tree →
• The school streamlined the lunch queue so everyone eats sooner. tree →
• Cyclists crouch low to make themselves more streamlined. tree →
• Mum streamlined her morning by packing bags the night before. tree →
• The new train has a streamlined nose. tree →

Note

Past form «streamlined» is often used as an adjective: «a streamlined car». In science, streamlined does not mean «no friction»; it means less drag. Opposite idea: a «blunt» or «boxy» shape that has more drag.