Meaning & Definition of word "Aircraft"

Aircraft

/ˈɛərkræft/

noun:

  • 1. Any vehicle capable of atmospheric flight, including fixed-wing airplanes and rotorcraft.
    • Example: The aircraft soared gracefully above the clouds.
  • 2. A category of vehicles that includes all types of flying machines.
    • Example: The military is testing new types of aircraft for reconnaissance missions.
  • 3. A specific type of vehicle designed for air travel, such as a plane or helicopter.
    • Example: She works as a mechanic for commercial aircraft.
  • 4. An area of study related to the design and operation of flying vehicles.
    • Example: He is pursuing a degree in aircraft engineering.

Etymology

The term 'aircraft' is a combination of 'air' and 'craft', with 'craft' meaning 'vehicle'. It was first used in the early 20th century.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hot air balloon:

A lighter-than-air aircraft that can carry passengers.

aircraft carrier:

A large ship designed to deploy and recover aircraft.

fixed-wing aircraft:

A type of aircraft with wings that do not move and generate lift.

Related Words

aviation:

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

flight:

The action of flying through the air.

pilot:

A person who navigates and is in control of an aircraft.

Slang Meanings of aircraft

Meaning: Bird

Example Sentence: Oh look, there goes a big bird in the sky!

Meaning: Flying machine

Example Sentence: Check out that flying machine zoom past us!