Glider: meaning, definitions and examples

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glider

 

[ ˈɡlaɪdər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

aircraft

A glider is a type of aircraft that does not have an engine and is designed to fly using air currents and thermals. Gliders are typically used for recreational purposes or in competitive sports.

Synonyms

gliding aircraft, sailplane.

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Word Description / Examples
glider

Use this term when referring to a general, unpowered aircraft that flies using currents of rising air. This word is common in everyday language.

  • He took the glider out for a peaceful flight over the hills.
  • The museum had an old glider on display.
sailplane

This is a specific type of glider designed for sustained flight using rising air currents. It is often referred to in the context of sport or competitive flying.

  • She won the championship in her new sailplane.
  • The sailplane smoothly soared over the terrain, catching thermal updrafts.
gliding aircraft

This term is more technical and might be used in a more formal or detailed discussion about aviation. It encompasses any aircraft designed for gliding without an engine.

  • The team studied the aerodynamics of various gliding aircraft.
  • He specialized in the design of gliding aircraft.

Examples of usage

  • The glider silently soared through the sky, catching the warm updrafts.
  • She enjoys the sense of freedom that comes with piloting a glider.
  • Gliders are often towed into the air by a powered aircraft before releasing and gliding independently.
  • Many people find the experience of gliding to be peaceful and exhilarating.
  • The glider pilot skillfully navigated through the turbulent air currents.

Translations

Translations of the word "glider" in other languages:

🇵🇹 planador

🇮🇳 ग्लाइडर

🇩🇪 Segelflugzeug

🇮🇩 layang-layang

🇺🇦 планер

🇵🇱 szybowiec

🇯🇵 グライダー

🇫🇷 planeur

🇪🇸 planeador

🇹🇷 planör

🇰🇷 글라이더

🇸🇦 طائرة شراعية

🇨🇿 kluzák

🇸🇰 vetroň

🇨🇳 滑翔机

🇸🇮 jadralno letalo

🇮🇸 svifnökkvi

🇰🇿 планер

🇬🇪 გლაიდერი

🇦🇿 planer

🇲🇽 planeador

Etymology

The word 'glider' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the verb 'glide,' which means to move smoothly and continuously, especially without effort or noise. The concept of gliding or soaring like a bird has fascinated humans for centuries, leading to the development of glider aircraft for recreational and competitive purposes.

See also: glide, gliding, paragliding.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,576, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.