1. a device or surface on an aircraft or spacecraft that increases drag to slow descent or reduce speed
Usage: aerospace/aviation term; also called an air brake

Examples

• The pilot deployed the aerobrake to slow the aircraft before landing.
• Modern jets use aerobrakes to reduce landing distance.
• The spacecraft's aerobrake helped it decelerate as it entered the atmosphere.
• Aerobrakes are essential safety features on high-speed aircraft.
• The fighter jet's aerobrake extended from the fuselage during descent.