Definition
An induction system in which an engine-driven air compressor (the supercharger) increases the pressure of the intake air before it enters the engine's cylinders, allowing the engine to maintain its rated power at higher altitudes where the surrounding air is less dense. The compressor is mechanically driven by the engine's crankshaft, typically through a gear train.
Plain English
A system that uses a pump, run by the engine itself, to squeeze more air into the cylinders. This lets the engine keep producing strong power at altitudes where the thinner outside air would otherwise cause it to lose power.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of aircraft engine induction systems, engine power at altitude, and high-performance piston engines.
Derivation
From 'super-' (above, beyond) and 'charge' (to load or fill). The system 'over-fills' the cylinders with air beyond what they would naturally draw in.
Why Pilots Care
Provides higher power output at altitude where normally aspirated engines lose performance, but requires careful monitoring of temperatures and manifold pressure to avoid engine damage.
Analogy
It is like helping a campfire by blowing extra air into it. The added air lets the fire burn stronger; in an engine, added air lets more fuel burn and makes more power.
Intuition Check
“Supercharged” does not just mean “more powerful” or “high performance.” It means the intake air is being compressed before it enters the engine.
Example Sentence 1
The aircraft's supercharged system allowed the engine to hold full rated power well above 10,000 feet, where a normally aspirated engine would have been struggling.
Example Sentence 2
Before takeoff the crew verified that the supercharged system’s waste gate was functioning to prevent excessive manifold pressure.