Plain English Meaning

The small, wing-like surface sticking out horizontally from the tail. It keeps the nose of the airplane from pitching up or down on its own and gives the elevator something to hinge onto.

Full Definition

A fixed horizontal airfoil mounted at the rear of the airplane, forming the front portion of the tail's horizontal surface. It provides longitudinal (pitch) stability by producing an aerodynamic force that resists changes in the airplane's nose-up or nose-down attitude. The movable elevator is typically attached to its trailing edge.

Context Anchor

Seen during preflight inspection, in aircraft control-surface descriptions, and when how the tail helps the airplane.