Waterplane: meaning, definitions and examples
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waterplane
[ ˈwɔːtərˌpleɪn ]
aviation design
A waterplane is a type of aircraft that is designed to take off from and land on water. It typically has a hull or floats that allow it to remain buoyant on the surface. Waterplanes can be used for various purposes, including transportation, recreation, and military operations.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The seaplane is a common type of waterplane used for tourism.
- During the festival, they showcased a new waterplane designed for rescue missions.
- Waterplanes require specific landing techniques because of the surface variability.
Etymology
The term 'waterplane' combines the word 'water,' derived from Old English 'wæter,' which has Proto-Germanic roots meaning 'water,' and 'plane,' originating from the Latin 'planus' meaning 'flat' or 'level.' The concept of using aircraft on water began in the early 20th century as innovators sought to create vehicles that could operate on both land and sea. The introduction of floatplanes and amphibious aircraft marked a significant development in aviation history, allowing for greater exploration and accessibility in regions with water bodies. Over time, the design and engineering of waterplanes have advanced, with improvements in hydrodynamics and materials to enhance performance and safety.