Aircraft Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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aircraft
[ˈɛəkrɑːft ]
Definition
in aviation
A vehicle that can fly, such as an airplane or helicopter. Aircraft are used for transportation, recreation, and military purposes.
Synonyms
airplane, flying machine, helicopter, plane.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| aircraft |
This term is a broad category used to describe any machine capable of flying. It can refer to airplanes, helicopters, gliders, etc.
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| airplane |
Typically used to refer to fixed-wing aircraft powered by engines. It’s a common term for commercial passenger planes.
|
| plane |
A more casual or colloquial term for an airplane. It’s used in everyday conversation.
|
| helicopter |
Used to describe a type of aircraft that achieves lift and propulsion from rotors rather than fixed wings. Helicopters are capable of vertical takeoff and landing.
|
| flying machine |
This term is rarely used in modern language and has a historical or experimental connotation. It was more common in the early days of aviation.
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Examples of usage
- The aircraft taxied down the runway before taking off.
- The military deployed several aircraft to assist in the rescue mission.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- The Wright brothers are credited with creating the first successful powered aircraft in 1903, changing how we travel.
- During World War I, military aviation began to develop rapidly, leading to significant advancements in design and technology.
Technology
- Modern aircraft use advanced materials like carbon fiber, making them lighter and more fuel-efficient.
- The development of jet engines revolutionized air travel, allowing planes to fly faster and higher than ever before.
Cultural Impact
- Movies and books about flying often romanticize pilots and their aircraft, highlighting adventure and exploration.
- Aviation has inspired a vast array of global events and competitions, such as airshows and aerobatic contests, celebrating flying.
Science
- Aerodynamics is the study of how air moves around things, crucial for designing aircraft to fly efficiently.
- The principles of lift, thrust, drag, and weight are essential to understanding how an aircraft stays in the air.
Origin of 'aircraft'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'aircraft' combines 'air', meaning the atmosphere, and 'craft', which refers to a vehicle or a skill in making something.
- The term became common in early 20th century as flying machines evolved from hot air balloons to modern airplanes.
The word 'aircraft' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'air' and 'craft'. It refers to any vehicle capable of flight, including airplanes, helicopters, and drones. Aircraft have revolutionized transportation and warfare, allowing for rapid travel and strategic advantages. The development of aircraft technology has been a major focus of innovation and progress in the modern era.
See also: air, airborne, airdrop, airfield, airflow, airfoil, airiness, airing, airline, airman, airplane, airs, airship, airspace, airstrike, airstrip, airtight, airway, airy.