Plain English Meaning
Slim strips that run the length of a wing or fuselage on the inside, supporting the outer skin and helping the structure resist bending.
Full Definition
Long, thin structural members that run lengthwise inside an aircraft wing or fuselage, attached to the ribs or frames to stiffen the skin and help carry bending loads along the length of the structure.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft structure discussions and wing diagrams, especially when learning how the wing skin, ribs, spars, and internal supports work together.
Derivation
From the English word 'string,' meaning a long, thin line. Stringers are named for their long, narrow, line-like shape running along the structure.
Why Pilots Care
Stringers help under loads, directly affecting structural and flightworthiness.