Flying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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flying

[ˈflaɪɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

air travel

Traveling by air; relating to or involved in the operation of aircraft.

Synonyms

aerial, airborne, aviation.

Examples of usage

  • We took a flying lesson last weekend.
  • She works for a major flying company.
  • The flying time between New York and London is approximately 7 hours.
Context #2 | Noun

sport

The sport or activity of gliding through the air with wings or a parachute.

Synonyms

gliding, parachuting, soaring.

Examples of usage

  • He enjoys skydiving and flying.
  • She is a professional in the sport of flying.
  • The flying competition will take place next month.
Context #3 | Noun

insect

An insect with two wings that flies.

Synonyms

bug, insect, moth.

Examples of usage

  • I saw a flying in the garden.
  • The flying landed on the flower.
  • The children were chasing the flying in the park.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Flight relies on principles like lift, drag, and thrust, allowing planes to soar.
  • Birds have hollow bones, which help them weigh less and fly better.
  • Insects are capable of aerial maneuvers far beyond what birds and planes can do, thanks to their unique wing structure.

Culture

  • Flying has been a symbol of freedom in poetry and songs across cultures.
  • In many stories and movies, characters who can fly are often seen as powerful or heroic.
  • The Wright brothers' first successful flight in 1903 marked a significant milestone in the transformation of travel.

Psychology

  • Dreams about flying often symbolize freedom and empowerment, allowing people to escape daily struggles.
  • People who fear flying may experience anxiety due to a lack of control while in the air.
  • The sensation of flying in dreams can trigger feelings of elation and excitement.

Technology

  • Drones have revolutionized the concept of flying by allowing people to control flights remotely.
  • Advanced materials are being developed to make lighter and more fuel-efficient aircraft.
  • The development of jet packs is beginning to bring personal flight closer to reality for individuals.

Origin of 'flying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'flea,' meaning to move quickly through the air.
  • In German, 'fliegen' also means to fly, showing similar roots in languages.
  • The concept of 'flying' has been around in various forms, from ancient myths to modern aviation.

The word 'flying' originates from the Old English word 'flēogan', which means 'to fly'. The concept of flying has always been a fascination for humans, leading to inventions like airplanes and helicopters. In the context of sports, flying has evolved into activities like skydiving and paragliding, offering people the experience of soaring through the air. In nature, flying insects have fascinated scientists and enthusiasts alike with their ability to move effortlessly through the air.


See also: flight, fly, flyer, flyover.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,448, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.