Airplane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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airplane

[ˈɛrˌpleɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

transportation

An airplane is a powered flying vehicle with fixed wings and a weight greater than that of the air it displaces.

Synonyms

aircraft, jet, plane.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
airplane	Typically used in everyday conversation to refer to a common type of aircraft that people travel in. I'm flying to New York on a commercial airplane. The airplane took off smoothly despite the weather.
plane	A casual and short form for airplane, used in informal speech. We watched the planes take off and land at the airport. I prefer traveling by plane because it's faster.
aircraft	A more formal or technical term encompassing various types of flying machines, including helicopters, gliders, and jets. Often used in aviation industries or official communication. The aircraft underwent a thorough inspection before the flight. Both military and civilian aircraft were involved in the operation.
jet	Commonly refers to a fast, powerful type of airplane, typically used for long-distance travel, military purposes, or private luxury travel. They chartered a private jet for the business trip. The sound of the jet engines was deafening.

Examples of usage

I took an airplane to travel to Europe.
The airplane landed safely despite the storm.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

military

An airplane can also refer to a military aircraft designed for warfare.

Synonyms

bomber, fighter jet, warplane.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
airplane	Used in general conversations about flying or air travel. I booked a ticket on an airplane to New York. The airplane took off smoothly.
warplane	A general term for any military aircraft used in combat. The museum has several historical warplanes on display. The sky was filled with warplanes during the conflict.
fighter jet	Describes a fast and agile military aircraft designed for air-to-air combat. The air force deployed fighter jets to patrol the skies. She watched a fighter jet perform incredible maneuvers at the air show.
bomber	Refers to a military aircraft specifically designed to drop bombs. The bomber flew over the target area. During the war, the bomber was a crucial part of air raids.

Examples of usage

The army used airplanes for reconnaissance missions.
The enemy's airplanes bombed the city.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

informal

To airplane means to travel by airplane.

Synonyms

fly, jet, travel by air.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
airplane	A common term used for all kinds of powered, fixed-wing aircraft. I booked a ticket on the next airplane to New York The airplane taxied down the runway
fly	Used as a verb to describe the act of traveling by air. We will fly to Paris next weekend He loves to fly to different countries
jet	Specifically refers to a jet aircraft, which is faster and usually used for commercial, military, or private purposes. The business jet will get you to your destination much faster He enjoys the comfort of traveling in a private jet
travel by air	A general phrase that encompasses all forms of air transportation. It can be used to describe the action of moving through the air using any type of aircraft. Many people prefer to travel by air because it's quicker Traveling by air during holidays can be hectic

Examples of usage

We decided to airplane to our destination rather than drive.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The first successful powered airplane was created by the Wright brothers in 1903, changing how humans travel.
The term 'airplane' is derived from the French word 'aérodynamique', relating to the science of flight.
From wood to metal, the materials used in aircraft construction have evolved significantly since the early 20th century.

Science

Lift, drag, weight, and thrust are the four forces that work together to help an airplane fly.
Aerodynamics is the study of how air moves around things, and it's crucial for designing efficient airplanes.
Airplanes can travel at speeds over 600 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest ways to travel long distances.

Pop Culture

Movies like ‘Airplane!’ (1980) turned the concept of flying into a comedy classic, influencing how we see air travel.
The Concorde was a famous supersonic airplane, known for enabling passengers to travel faster than the speed of sound until its retirement in 2003.
Airplanes are often used as symbols of freedom and adventure in songs and literature, representing journeys and exploration.

Technology

Modern airplanes are equipped with advanced technology, including GPS systems for navigation and autopilot features.
Jet engines, first used in the 1930s, revolutionized air travel by allowing planes to fly faster and higher than ever before.
The use of composite materials in airplane construction has led to lighter and more fuel-efficient designs.

Psychology

Fear of flying, known as aviophobia, affects many people, often linked to a fear of heights or confined spaces.
Air travel can evoke a sense of excitement and anticipation, shaping the psychological experience of adventure.
In-flight experiences can affect mood and stress levels, with soothing music and comfortable seats contributing to passenger comfort.

Origin of 'airplane'

The term 'airplane' dates back to the early 20th century, derived from the combination of 'air' and 'plane'. The Wright brothers are credited with building and flying the first successful airplane in 1903, revolutionizing transportation and travel. Since then, airplanes have become an integral part of modern society, connecting people and cultures around the world.