aircraft

[air-kraft, -krahft]

noun

plural

aircraft 

1. any machine supported for flight in the air by buoyancy or by the dynamic action of air on its surfaces, especially powered airplanes, gliders, and helicopters.

aircraft

/ ˈɛəˌkrɑːft /

noun

1. any machine capable of flying by means of buoyancy or aerodynamic forces, such as a glider, helicopter, or aeroplane

Word History and Origins

Origin of aircraft¹

First recorded in 1840–50; air ¹ + craft

Example Sentences

About an hour later, the aircraft had landed, loaded a fresh group of passengers and was back in the sky returning to Boston.

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The aircraft is still in development, with a first flight targeted for 2027.

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For most of its fleet, the airline will continue to work with Viasat, the satellite company that has provided connections on its aircraft for years.

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FAA inspectors will remain involved in issuing so-called airworthiness certificates, which are required for each aircraft to be able to fly with passengers.

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Ortberg appointed a new senior product chief in Boeing’s commercial plane business, whose prior role was developing a new type of aircraft.

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Related Words

• airliner 
• balloon 
• chopper 
• helicopter 
• jet