Plain English Meaning

The speed the airplane needs to be going down the runway before the wings can lift it into the air.

Full Definition

The airspeed at which an airplane, during the takeoff roll, generates enough lift to leave the runway and become airborne. Also called rotation speed in some aircraft, it is determined by aircraft weight, configuration, and manufacturer guidance, and is reached after sufficient acceleration along the runway.

Context Anchor

Seen in takeoff discussions and in power-on stall practice, where the airplane may be slowed to about the speed it would normally have as it leaves the runway.