Pilot: meaning, definitions and examples
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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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
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.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "pilot" in other languages:
🇵🇹 piloto
🇮🇳 पायलट
🇩🇪 Pilot
🇮🇩 pilot
🇺🇦 пілот
🇵🇱 pilot
🇯🇵 パイロット
🇫🇷 pilote
🇪🇸 piloto
🇹🇷 pilot
🇰🇷 파일럿
🇸🇦 طيار
🇨🇿 pilot
🇸🇰 pilot
🇨🇳 飞行员
🇸🇮 pilot
🇮🇸 flugmaður
🇰🇿 ұшқыш
🇬🇪 პილოტი
🇦🇿 pilot
🇲🇽 piloto