Biplane: meaning, definitions and examples

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biplane

 

[ ˈbaɪˌpleɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

type of aircraft

A biplane is an early type of aircraft that features two wings stacked one above the other. This design was prevalent in the early days of aviation, providing greater lift and maneuverability compared to monoplanes. Biplanes were commonly used during World War I and in the early years of aviation as they were easier to build and fly.

Synonyms

biplane aircraft, biplane fighter, biplane trainer

Examples of usage

  • The biplane soared gracefully through the sky.
  • Many biplanes were used for barnstorming in the 1920s.
  • She restored a vintage biplane to its former glory.
  • The airshow featured a stunning display of biplane aerobatics.

Translations

Translations of the word "biplane" in other languages:

🇵🇹 biplano

🇮🇳 बाईप्लेन

🇩🇪 Doppeldecker

🇮🇩 biplan

🇺🇦 біплан

🇵🇱 biplan

🇯🇵 二重翼機

🇫🇷 biplan

🇪🇸 biplano

🇹🇷 biplan

🇰🇷 이중익기

🇸🇦 طائرة ثنائية السطح

🇨🇿 dvouplošník

🇸🇰 dvojplošník

🇨🇳 双翼机

🇸🇮 dvokrilnik

🇮🇸 tvöfaldur flugvél

🇰🇿 екі қанатты ұшақ

🇬🇪 ბიპლანი

🇦🇿 biplan

🇲🇽 biplano

Word origin

The term 'biplane' combines the prefix 'bi-' meaning 'two', and 'plane', which is derived from 'aeroplane'. The etymology of 'aeroplane' traces back to the early 19th century, from the French 'aéroplane', which itself comes from the Greek 'aēr' (air) and 'planos' (to wander). Biplanes became prominent in the early 1900s, favored by early aviators such as the Wright brothers and later, by military forces during World War I for their structural integrity and stability. The biplane configuration allowed for shorter wingspans, which were helpful in achieving higher lift at lower speeds compared to monoplanes. Their popularity diminished in the 1930s as advancements in aerodynamics and materials led to the development of more efficient monoplanes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,880, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.