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Spaceship Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spaceship

[ˈspeɪsˌʃɪp ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

outer space exploration

A spaceship is a vehicle designed for travel or transportation in outer space.

Synonyms

spacecraft, starship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spaceship

Used generally and colloquially to describe any vehicle designed for travel in outer space. Commonly used in science fiction.

  • The crew boarded the spaceship and prepared for launch.
  • In the movie, the spaceship could travel faster than light.
spacecraft

A technical and formal term for a vehicle or device designed for travel or operation in outer space. Often used in scientific and engineering contexts.

  • The spacecraft successfully reached Mars after a six-month journey.
  • NASA is developing a new spacecraft for deep space exploration.
starship

Used specifically in science fiction to describe a large, often sophisticated spacecraft capable of interstellar travel, traveling between stars.

  • The starship's crew set off on a mission to explore distant galaxies.
  • In the novel, the starship was equipped with advanced technology unknown to humanity.

Examples of usage

  • The astronauts boarded the spaceship for their mission to Mars.
  • The spaceship was equipped with advanced technology for the long journey.
Context #2 | Noun

science fiction

In science fiction, a spaceship is often depicted as a futuristic and advanced mode of transportation between planets or galaxies.

Synonyms

spacecraft, starship.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spaceship

Commonly used in science fiction to describe a vehicle designed for traveling in outer space, usually carrying people.

  • The spaceship landed safely on the distant planet.
  • They boarded the spaceship, ready for their interstellar journey.
starship

Similar to 'spaceship,' but specifically denotes a vehicle designed for travel between stars, often used in science fiction narratives.

  • The starship embarked on a voyage to a neighboring star system.
  • The crew spent years aboard the starship exploring the galaxy.
spacecraft

A more technical term used in scientific contexts to refer to any vehicle or device designed for travel or operation in outer space, including satellites and robotic probes.

  • The spacecraft successfully entered Mars' orbit.
  • NASA launched a new spacecraft to study the outer planets.

Examples of usage

  • The spaceship in the movie could travel faster than the speed of light.
  • The crew of the spaceship encountered alien life forms on their journey.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'spaceship' gained popularity in the mid-20th century as humans began dreaming about traveling beyond Earth.
  • Early depictions of spaceships often appeared in science fiction literature and films, encouraging real-world exploration.
  • The first successful manned spaceflight occurred in 1961 with the Soviet spacecraft Vostok 1, paving the way for future spaceships.

Pop Culture

  • Spaceships feature prominently in popular movies like Star Wars and Star Trek, helping shape our understanding of space travel.
  • The Millennium Falcon is one of the most famous fictional spaceships, known for its speed and unique design.
  • Video games like No Man's Sky allow players to pilot various spaceships, showcasing the creativity and diversity of designs.

Science

  • Modern spacecraft are equipped with advanced technology, including life support systems and onboard computers to assist astronauts.
  • Rockets, which are the launch vehicles, are often confused with spaceships, but they serve different purposes in space travel.
  • The International Space Station is a unique type of spaceship that acts as both a research laboratory and a home for astronauts.

Psychology

  • The fascination with spaceships can spark curiosity and inspire interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields.
  • Narratives involving spaceships often explore themes of adventure and exploration, reflecting human desires for discovery.
  • Witnessing space missions gives people a sense of connection to the universe, influencing collective imagination and ambition.

Literature

  • Notable science fiction authors like Arthur C. Clarke and Isaac Asimov created detailed worlds involving advanced spaceships.
  • Spaceships in literature often act as symbols of hope and the possibility of new beginnings for humanity.
  • Many young adult novels feature spaceships as vehicles for adventure, capturing the imaginations of a new generation of readers.

Origin of 'spaceship'

The concept of a spaceship dates back to ancient times with references in mythology and literature. However, the modern idea of a spaceship as a vehicle for space travel emerged in the early 20th century with the development of rocket technology. The first successful manned spaceflight took place in 1961 with Yuri Gagarin orbiting the Earth. Since then, spacecraft have been used for various missions including moon landings, space station construction, and exploration of other planets.

See also: space, spacecraft, spacefarer, spacer, spaces, spacing, spacious, spatial, spatially, workspace.