Definition
One of the two movable control surfaces on a V-tail (butterfly tail) empennage that combines the functions of a rudder and an elevator. When both surfaces deflect together in the same direction, they act as elevators to control pitch. When they deflect differentially (one up, one down), they act as a rudder to control yaw. Most operating positions involve a blend of both inputs, mixed mechanically or electronically through the flight control system.
Plain English
A control surface on a V-shaped tail that does the job of both the rudder and the elevator at the same time. Moving them together makes the nose go up or down; moving them opposite to each other makes the nose swing left or right.
Context Anchor
Seen during preflight inspections, flight control checks, maintenance discussions, and descriptions of V-tail aircraft.
Derivation
A blended word made from rudder and elevator. The name itself tells you the surface does the work of both.
Why Pilots Care
Correct operation is essential for coordinated turns and pitch control; misrigging or damage affects both yaw and pitch simultaneously.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a ruddervator as a separate extra control. It is the V-tail surface that combines rudder and elevator action in one moving part.
Example Sentence 1
The Bonanza's distinctive V-tail uses two ruddervators instead of a separate rudder and horizontal stabilizer.
Example Sentence 2
During the preflight inspection the mechanic checked both ruddervators for free and correct travel.