Sailplane: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used in technical or specialized discussions about aircraft that are designed for unpowered flight and aerodynamic efficiency.

• The sailplane managed to stay aloft for hours due to the skilled piloting and favorable weather conditions.
• In the magazine, they featured an article on the history of sailplanes in competitive soaring.

Commonly used in everyday language or general contexts to refer to any aircraft that flies without an engine.

• I saw a glider floating silently over the hilltops during my hike.
• My friend is learning how to pilot a glider at the local aero club.

Rarely used; it can be found in casual or informal dialogue, but might sound awkward in technical discussions.

• They watched the gliding plane descend slowly to the landing field.
• A gliding plane is different from a regular airplane because it doesn't have an engine.

This phrase is typically used to highlight the activity or sport of staying aloft and gaining altitude using natural lift sources, like thermals.

• Soaring aircraft rely on the pilot's skill to find and use thermals to stay in the air.
• The club has organized a competition for soaring aircraft this weekend.