gull wing: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No, they are similar but distinct. Gull-wing doors typically hinge at the roof line and open almost vertically. Butterfly doors also open upwards but often hinge on the front side (A-pillar) and rotate outwards as well as up, resembling a butterfly's wings.

Yes, though it's less common. It can describe an upward-curving roof line in architecture, a type of aircraft wing design, or the shape of certain furniture or objects.

Both forms are accepted. Dictionaries often list it as 'gull-wing', but 'gullwing' (as a closed compound) is very common, especially in brand names and enthusiast communities.

They present engineering challenges for side impact safety, roof strength, and practicality (e.g., difficulty entering/exiting in low-ceiling garages or in rain). They are complex and expensive to manufacture compared to conventional doors.

A hinged panel on a car that opens upwards from a central point, resembling a bird's wing in shape and movement.

Gull wing is usually technical/specialist in register.

Gull wing: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡʌl ˌwɪŋ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡʌl ˌwɪŋ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.