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Plane Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plane

[pleɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in aviation

A powered flying vehicle with fixed wings and a weight greater than that of the air it displaces.

Synonyms

aeroplane, aircraft, jet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plane

Commonly used in everyday conversation to refer to any type of flying vehicle that carries passengers or goods through the air.

  • I am taking a plane to New York next week.
  • The plane is expected to land at 5 PM.
aircraft

A general term that refers to any type of vehicle capable of flight, including planes, helicopters, drones, etc. Often used in technical or formal contexts.

  • The aircraft is scheduled for maintenance tomorrow.
  • Military aircraft were spotted flying over the region.
jet

Specifically refers to airplanes that are powered by jet engines. Often used when talking about faster, more powerful aircraft.

  • The jet flew across the Atlantic in just a few hours.
  • He works as a pilot for a private jet company.
aeroplane

Mostly used in British English to describe a flying vehicle similar to 'plane' in American English.

  • He boarded the aeroplane and fastened his seatbelt.
  • The aeroplane took off smoothly from the runway.

Examples of usage

  • The plane took off smoothly from the runway.
  • The pilot guided the plane through turbulent weather.
  • Passengers boarded the plane for their flight.
Context #2 | Noun

in geometry

A flat surface that extends infinitely in all directions.

Synonyms

level, sheet, surface.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plane

Used in mathematics or geometry to describe a flat, two-dimensional surface. It can also refer to an aircraft for air travel.

  • The geometry teacher drew a plane on the board.
  • They boarded the plane for a flight to Paris.
surface

Used to describe the outermost layer or top of an object. It can be used in contexts such as water bodies, buildings, or any physical item.

  • The surface of the table was scratched.
  • The lake's surface was calm.
  • Dust can accumulate on the surface of furniture.
level

Used to describe a flat or even surface, or a specific height or standard. It can be used in construction, gaming, or performance standards.

  • The builder used a tool to make sure the floor was level.
  • She is at an advanced level in her English course.
  • He reached level 5 in the video game.
sheet

Typically refers to a large piece of fabric for bedding or a flat piece of material like paper or metal. It can also be used in cooking or certain industrial processes.

  • She bought new sheets for the bed.
  • Please pass me a sheet of paper.
  • The chef placed the cookies on a baking sheet.

Examples of usage

  • The figure was drawn on a plane.
  • The two points lie in the same plane.
  • The plane of the table was smooth and polished.
Context #3 | Verb

in woodworking

To make (a surface) level or smooth.

Synonyms

even, level, smooth.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plane

Refers to a flat, two-dimensional surface. Commonly used in geometry, carpentry, and aviation.

  • The carpenter ensured the wood was on a perfect plane
  • In geometry, we study different shapes on a plane
smooth

Describes a surface without roughness, or a process that goes easily and without disruption. Common in describing textures, actions, and transitions.

  • Feel this fabric; it's really smooth
  • The transition between the two stages was very smooth
level

Indicates something that is perfectly horizontal or balanced, often used in construction and indicating fairness or equality.

  • Use this tool to check if the shelf is level
  • We need to provide a level playing field for all the participants
even

Describes something with a smooth, continuous surface without bumps or irregularities. It's also used in mathematics and casual conversation.

  • The road was finally even after the repairs
  • Cut the cake into even pieces so everyone gets the same amount

Examples of usage

  • The carpenter planed the rough wood.
  • She carefully planed the edges of the board.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, a plane can refer to a flat surface where forces can act evenly, significant in mechanics.
  • Aerodynamics studies how planes move through air, focusing on how lift is generated to keep them airborne.
  • Pilots must understand flight dynamics, including how different planes respond to various atmospheric conditions.

Technology

  • The first successful powered airplane was built by the Wright brothers in 1903, revolutionizing travel.
  • Modern planes often use advanced materials like carbon fiber to enhance performance and reduce weight.
  • Global positioning systems (GPS) have transformed navigation for aviation, allowing for precise routing and tracking.

Cultural References

  • Planes have become a symbol of adventure and freedom, often depicted in movies and stories as a means to explore new worlds.
  • The song 'Leaving on a Jet Plane' expresses the emotions of travel and separation connected with flying.
  • Air travel has changed how we connect with friends and family, making the world more accessible than ever before.

History

  • The invention of the airplane marked the beginning of the aviation age in the early 20th century, forever changing transportation.
  • During World War II, planes played a crucial role in warfare, used for both combat and transport.
  • Commercial aviation began in the 1920s, leading to the globalization of trade and tourism.

Origin of 'plane'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'plane' comes from the Latin word 'planus', meaning 'flat' or 'level'.
  • In mathematics, 'plane' is a concept used to describe a two-dimensional surface with no thickness.
  • Over time, the meaning has evolved to include both geometry and aviation.

The word 'plane' originated from the Latin word 'planum' meaning flat surface or level ground. The modern usage of 'plane' as an aircraft dates back to the early 20th century when powered flight became a reality. Today, planes are a common mode of transportation for both passengers and cargo, revolutionizing travel and connecting people across the globe.

See also: plan, planned, planner, planners, planning, plans, replan, unplanned.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,716, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.