turbo
|tur-bo|
🇺🇸
/ˈtɝboʊ/
🇬🇧
/ˈtɜːbəʊ/
spinning boost
Etymology
'turbo' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'turbo, turbinis', where 'turbo' meant 'whirl' or 'spinning object'.
'turbo' entered English in modern technical use in the 20th century (as a short form of 'turbocharger' or 'turbocompressor'); the Latin 'turbo, turbinis' (meaning 'whirl') is the older source and influenced scientific and technical terms such as 'turbine' and 'turbulent'.
Initially, it meant 'whirl' or 'spinning object' in Latin, but over time it came to be associated with devices that use spinning turbines to boost engine power and then metaphorically to mean any sudden increase in speed or performance.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a turbocharger; a turbine-driven forced-induction device fitted to an internal-combustion engine to increase power output.
The car's turbo gave it much more low-end power.
Synonyms
Noun 2
informal: a vehicle or engine equipped with a turbocharger, or the turbo function/mode on a device.
Switch the vacuum to turbo for stronger suction.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
very fast, high-powered, or enhanced in performance; often used informally.
They released a turbo version of the app with faster load times.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2026/01/17 08:45