Aeroplane: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in British English to refer to a powered fixed-wing aircraft that is propelled forward by thrust from a jet engine or propeller.

• The aeroplane took off smoothly from the runway
• The museum has an impressive collection of vintage aeroplanes

Commonly used in American English to refer specifically to a powered fixed-wing aircraft that is propelled forward by thrust from a jet engine or propeller.

• She boarded the airplane for her flight to New York
• Modern airplanes are designed to be incredibly efficient

A general term referring to any machine capable of flight, including airplanes, helicopters, gliders, and more. Often used in technical or formal contexts.

• The new military aircraft is equipped with advanced radar systems
• The airline operates a diverse fleet of aircraft

A more casual or colloquial term for an airplane, commonly used in everyday speech in both British and American English.

• We could see the plane flying overhead
• They missed their plane due to heavy traffic