Helipad Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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helipad

[ˈhɛləˌpæd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

airport structure

A helipad is a designated area for landing and takeoff of helicopters. It is typically marked with a 'H' symbol and may include necessary safety features such as lighting and security barriers.

Synonyms

helicopter landing site, heliport.

Examples of usage

  • The rescue team landed on the helipad after the emergency call.
  • The hotel has a helipad for convenient transport.
  • They built a new helipad at the hospital for patient transfers.

Translations

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Origin of 'helipad'

The term 'helipad' combines the prefix 'heli-', derived from 'helicopter', and the suffix '-pad', which comes from 'landing pad'. The word has its roots in aviation and became more common in the 20th century as helicopter travel developed. Initially, helicopters were used primarily for military purposes, so landing areas were established nearby bases. As the use of helicopters expanded into civilian applications, the need for designated landing zones at hospitals, corporate offices, and other locations grew, resulting in the establishment of helipads. The design and regulations surrounding helipads have since evolved to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Today, helipads can vary widely in size and complexity, ranging from simple platforms on rooftops to large facilities at airports.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,531, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.