1. a boat or seaplane that skims along the surface of water on hydrofoils or a specially designed hull
2. a fin or blade attached to a submarine or underwater vessel to control depth and direction
Usage: nautical

1. to skim or glide over the surface of water
2. (of a vehicle tire) to lose traction and slide on a wet road surface
Usage: automotive

Examples

• The hydroplane raced across the bay at incredible speeds.
• Modern submarines use hydroplanes to maintain stable depth underwater.
• The experimental aircraft could hydroplane across calm lakes.
• When it started raining heavily, the car began to hydroplane on the highway.
• The pilot adjusted the hydroplanes to dive deeper into the ocean.
• Hydroplaning is a serious hazard for drivers on wet roads.