Meaning & Definition of word "Helicopter"

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    Helicopter

    /ˈhɛlɪˌkɒptər/

    noun:

    • 1. A type of aircraft that achieves lift and propulsion from one or more horizontal rotors.
      • Example: The helicopter flew over the city, providing aerial views for the tourists.
    • 2. A vehicle designed to be able to take off, hover, and land vertically.
      • Example: After the accident, the injured were transported to the hospital by helicopter.
    • 3. A rotary-wing aircraft that is capable of flying backward, sideways, and vertically.
      • Example: The news station used a helicopter to capture the live footage of the event.

    Etymology

    From the French 'hélicoptère', which comes from the Greek 'helix' (spiral) and 'pteron' (wing).

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    helicopter parent:

    A parent who is overly involved in their child's life.

    fly a helicopter:

    To operate a helicopter.

    Related Words

    rotor:

    A blade that rotates around a central axis, crucial for the lift in helicopter flight.

    aviation:

    The design, development, production, operation, and use of aircraft.

    Slang Meanings of helicopter

    Meaning: Chopper

    Example Sentence: I took a chopper to the concert across town.

    Meaning: Whirlybird

    Example Sentence: Rescue teams are deploying whirlybirds for the operation.