Airborne Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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airborne

[ˈɛəbɔːn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in the air

existing or occurring in the air

Synonyms

aerial, flying, skyborne.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
airborne	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.
aerial	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.
flying	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.
skyborne	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.

Examples of usage

The airborne particles can spread diseases quickly.
The airborne troops parachuted into enemy territory.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

military

soldiers trained to be parachuted into combat areas

Synonyms

air assault troops, jump troops, paratroopers.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
airborne	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.
paratroopers	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.
air assault troops	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.
jump troops	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.

Examples of usage

The airborne are known for their rapid deployment capabilities.
He joined the airborne division after completing his training.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

Various diseases can be categorized as airborne, meaning they spread through tiny droplets in the air when someone coughs or sneezes.
The concept of airborne pollutants highlights how substances like smoke and dust can be harmful when hanging in the air.
In aviation, 'airborne' refers to an aircraft that is flying, indicating it has left the ground.

Pop Culture

In films and literature, airborne missions often involve thrilling adventures where characters engage in daring acts up in the sky.
Airborne is also the title of a popular Netflix movie about an aerial rescue team, showcasing the excitement of flying.

Technology

Technological advancements in drones have made it easier for airborne surveillance, revolutionizing fields like agriculture and wildlife conservation.
Innovations in air travel technologies have significantly reduced the time it takes to travel across continents.

Environment

Airborne seeds from trees and plants are crucial for reproduction, allowing them to spread across vast areas for growth.
Airborne pollutants can lead to serious environmental issues, impacting air quality and public health.

Origin of 'airborne'

Main points about word origin

The term originated from combining 'air', referring to the invisible mixture of gases we breathe, and 'borne', which means carried.
The word has been in use since the late 14th century, originally describing things carried through the air.

The term 'airborne' originated in the early 20th century, specifically in the context of military operations and aviation. It was first used to describe soldiers trained to be parachuted into combat areas. Over time, the term also came to be used more broadly to refer to anything existing or occurring in the air, such as airborne particles or airborne diseases.