aeroshell

noun

aero·​shell ¦er-ō-¦shel 

plural aeroshells

: heat shield

One such system, the Viking-era 70° sphere cone aeroshell, has been used on every U.S. mission to the surface of Mars.

—Donald Rapp, Human Missions to Mars, 2007

Word History

Etymology

aero- + shell entry 1

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now