Plain English Meaning

A pushing-down force on the tail of the airplane, made by the tail surfaces, that stops the nose from dropping. It works against the airplane's natural tendency to pitch nose-down in flight.

Full Definition

An aerodynamic force generated by the horizontal tail surface (specifically the horizontal stabilizer and elevator) that pushes the tail of the aircraft downward in flight. This downward force balances the nose-heavy tendency created by the relationship between the aircraft's center of gravity and the wing's center of lift, keeping the aircraft in longitudinal trim.

Context Anchor

Seen when how the elevator pitch, especially why moving the elevator can make the nose rise or lower.