A "swept wing" is a type of aircraft wing design where the wing is angled backward from its root to its tip. This design helps reduce drag at high speeds, making it more efficient for supersonic flight. Swept wings are commonly found on military jets and commercial airliners, allowing them to achieve better performance during flight. The concept of swept wings was developed during the mid-20th century, with significant contributions from engineers like Hermann Oberth and Alexander Lippisch. This design has become a standard in modern aviation, enhancing stability and control while flying at higher velocities.