Skip to main content
Dictionary
Store
Blog
World
Help
Advertise
Chat
System Status
Information Collection Notice
Trademark Concerns
reCAPTCHA Privacy
Terms of Service
reCAPTCHA Terms
Privacy Policy
Accessibility
Report a Bug
Data Request
Contact Us
Security
DMCA
© 1999–2026 Urban Dictionary ®
Mugs
Tees
Hoodies
Pro Customization
Create unique products with your own words and definitions
Preview
Personalize Your Design
Your Word
Your Definition
A term of USAF origination used to describe the injury caused by a heavy steel grate at the top of the crew entry door ladder which gives access to the cockpit of military KC-135 aircraft. The grate serves as part of the cockpit floor when in the horizontal position and prevents falls through the crew entry door opening while the aircraft is on the ground. Crew members gain access to the aircraft by climbing a removable ladder about 15 feet and pushing the grate, which is hinged, vertical to a point where it is secured in the vertical position by a spring tension hook. When the spring has become weakened or a crew member is careless about ensuring that the grate is locked into position, the grate can fall back to the horizontal position... usually onto the head of the crew member who is attempting to advance into the aircraft. The "gridiron" construction of the grate produce wonderful waffle-like welts and/or lacerations on the head of the victim.
Text fits
Save
Cancel