Airborne: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when referring to something that is being carried or transported through the air, often in a scientific or technical context.

• The virus is airborne and can spread through the air.
• Once the plane is airborne, you can move around the cabin.

Used to describe something related to or happening in the air, often referring to views, actions, or types of activities.

• We took some stunning aerial photographs of the mountains.
• The aerial acrobatics at the circus were breathtaking.

Refers to the act of being in flight or the activity of operating or traveling in an aircraft, often used in everyday speech.

• I love flying because it means I can travel quickly.
• The birds were flying south for the winter.

More poetic or literary, usually describing something that is carried by or existing in the sky; less common in technical or everyday usage.

• The skyborne balloon drifted gently over the landscape.
• Legends spoke of skyborne deities watching over the earth.

Used to describe military forces or equipment that are transported by aircraft and can operate in the air or on land. This term can also be used generally to describe anything that is transported through the air.

• The airborne division was deployed to the conflict zone within a few hours.
• This disease is airborne and can spread rapidly through coughing and sneezing.

Refers to soldiers who are specially trained and equipped to parachute from aircraft into combat zones. This term is often used to highlight their specialized training and capability.

• The paratroopers were among the first to enter the combat zone.
• During the operation, paratroopers were essential in securing the strategic locations.

Refers specifically to soldiers who are trained to be inserted into combat zones via helicopters or other aircraft, typically conducting operations that require quick insertion and rapid movement.

• The air assault troops were dropped into the hostile area to support the ground forces.
• Air assault troops are essential for fast-paced, high-stakes missions.

Informal term often used to refer to soldiers who are trained to parachute from aircraft during a military operation. It emphasizes the method of their deployment.

• The jump troops trained tirelessly to perfect their parachute skills.
• During the exercise, the jump troops demonstrated their ability to quickly mobilize and secure key positions.