Pilot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pilot
[ˈpaɪlət ]
Definitions
aircraft
A person who operates the controls of an aircraft.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pilot |
This term refers to someone who operates an aircraft. It is the most commonly used word for the person responsible for flying planes, helicopters, and other airborne vehicles.
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| aviator |
This word is often used to refer to pilots in a more formal or historical context. It can imply a sense of adventure and is sometimes associated with the early days of aviation.
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| flyer |
This informal term is often used to describe someone who flies planes, but it can also refer to someone who frequently travels by air. It has a casual tone and is less common in professional settings.
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| captain |
While this term is generally used for someone in charge of a ship, it can also refer to the pilot in command of an aircraft. It's used formally in airlines or military contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot guided the plane safely to the runway.
- The pilot announced that we would be experiencing some turbulence.
television
The first episode of a television program that is used to sell the show to the network.
Synonyms
introductory episode, test episode.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pilot |
Commonly used in the entertainment industry to refer to the first episode of a TV series that is produced as a test. It determines whether a show will be picked up for a full series.
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| introductory episode |
Used to describe the first episode of a series that serves to introduce characters, settings, and the main plot. It doesn't necessarily indicate it is a test but focuses on presenting the show's basics.
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| test episode |
Typically used to highlight the trial nature of an episode created to gauge audience reaction before committing to more episodes. It emphasizes the experimental nature.
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Examples of usage
- The pilot of the new series received high ratings.
- The network decided to pick up the show based on the pilot.
experiment
To test or try out a new idea or project before fully committing to it.
Synonyms
experiment, test, trial.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pilot |
When you are starting something new on a small scale to see how it works before launching it fully. Usually used for projects, programs, or initiatives.
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| trial |
Often used in legal, medical, or clinical research contexts to describe a formal testing process to evaluate effectiveness, performance, or safety. Also used for trying out something new to see how well it works.
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| test |
Used in a more general sense to describe evaluating something by putting it through certain conditions or challenges to see its performance or quality. Frequently used in academic, technical, and everyday settings.
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| experiment |
This word is best used in scientific or controlled settings where variables are tested to discover new information or to prove a hypothesis.
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Examples of usage
- We will pilot this new program in a few select schools before implementing it nationwide.
- They decided to pilot a new recycling initiative in the office.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History of Aviation
- The first powered flight was made by the Wright brothers in 1903, leading to the need for skilled pilots.
- World War I saw the first use of airplanes in combat, creating a new role for pilots in military forces.
Pop Culture
- The character 'Maverick' in the film 'Top Gun' has become an iconic representation of a fighter pilot.
- Reality shows like 'The Amazing Race' often feature challenges where participants must navigate as if they were pilots.
Science
- Pilots must understand physics and weather patterns to navigate safely and efficiently through the skies.
- The role of co-pilot, or first officer, is crucial for teamwork and safety in modern aviation.
Training and Skills
- To become a pilot, one must undergo rigorous training, including simulator sessions and actual flight experience.
- Skills such as communication and problem-solving are essential for pilots to handle in-flight emergencies.
Origin of 'pilot'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pilot' comes from the Middle French word 'pilot', which means 'one who steers a ship'.
- The Greek word 'pilos', meaning 'felt cap', is related as pilots originally used caps to help with navigation.
The word 'pilot' originated from the Greek word 'pēdótes', meaning 'one who guides or steers'. It was first used in the 16th century to refer to someone who steers a ship. Over time, the term evolved to include those who operate aircraft and spacecraft. Today, 'pilot' is commonly associated with aviation and television industries.