How Do You Spell VIRGIL EXNER?

Pronunciation: [vˈɜːd͡ʒɪl ɛksnˈɜː] (IPA)

Virgil Exner was an American automobile designer. The spelling of his name is quite straightforward. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as /ˈvɜːrdʒɪl ɛksnər/. The first syllable "vir" is pronounced like "fur" but without the "f." The second syllable "gil" is pronounced like "jill" with a "g." The surname "Exner" is pronounced like "eksnər" with a silent "e" and emphasis on the second syllable. Overall, his name reflects his simple yet elegant design philosophy.

Meaning and Definition
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VIRGIL EXNER Meaning and Definition

  1. Virgil Exner was an influential American automobile designer who made significant contributions to the automotive industry during the mid-20th century. Born on September 24, 1909, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Exner is widely known for his work as a chief designer at Chrysler Corporation, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the company's design direction during the 1950s and 1960s.

    Exner's design philosophy emphasized sleekness, simplicity, and aerodynamic styling. He was instrumental in popularizing the "Forward Look" design language, characterized by exaggerated tail fins, low-profile bodies, and bold use of chrome accents. His designs aimed to capture the American fascination with space-age futuristic aesthetics prevalent during that era.

    Beyond his work at Chrysler, Exner also contributed to the design of several notable cars, such as the groundbreaking Studebaker Champion, the iconic Chevrolet Corvette, and the elegant Ghia-bodied Chrysler "idea cars." He collaborated with renowned Italian coachbuilder Ghia on various projects, resulting in the creation of some of the most striking automobile designs of the time.

    Virgil Exner's design legacy left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, influencing subsequent generations of car designers. His ability to blend artistry, innovation, and the spirit of the times into visually inspiring automotive designs cemented his place as one of the most significant figures in automotive design history. Today, Exner is remembered as a visionary designer who helped shape the aesthetic direction of American automobiles during a transformative period in the industry.

Etymology of VIRGIL EXNER

The word "Virgil Exner" is not derived from an etymology. Rather, it is a proper noun that refers to a person's name. "Virgil Exner" is the name of a prominent American automobile designer who worked in the mid-20th century. He was known for his influential designs at Chrysler Corporation, where he played a significant role in shaping the design language of several iconic car models.