Definition
A small auxiliary flap mounted on the forward portion of a transonic or supersonic airfoil, used to modify the flow of air over the leading area of the wing in order to delay or weaken shock wave formation and improve handling at high subsonic and transonic speeds.
Plain English
A small flap near the front of the wing that helps smooth out the airflow when the aircraft is flying fast enough that shock waves are starting to form.
Context Anchor
Seen in aerodynamics discussions about wing design, high-lift devices, and how wings manage airflow in subsonic and high-speed flight.
Derivation
From 'fore' meaning front or forward, and 'flap'. The name simply marks its position on the wing — a flap located toward the front, in contrast to the more familiar trailing-edge flaps at the back.
Why Pilots Care
Extending the foreflap improves low-speed lift and handling, shortening takeoff and landing distances while helping keep airflow attached over the wing.
Intuition Check
Do not read “foreflap” as a normal trailing-edge flap. “Fore” means it is on the front part of the wing.
Example Sentence 1
On some high-speed aircraft, the foreflap deflects slightly to smooth the airflow over the wing as the aircraft enters the transonic range.
Example Sentence 2
In subsonic flow discussions, the foreflap helps the wing maintain smooth airflow at high angles of attack.