takeoff

Or take-off

[teyk-awf, -of]

noun

1. a taking or setting off; the leaving of the ground, as in leaping or in beginning a flight in an airplane.

2. a taking off from a starting point, as in beginning a race.

3. the place or point at which a person or thing takes off.

4. a humorous or satirical imitation; burlesque.

5. Machinery.,  a shaft geared to a main shaft for running auxiliary machinery.

6. a branch connection to a pipe, electric line, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of takeoff¹

First recorded in 1820–30; noun use of verb phrase take off

Example Sentences

SpaceX must first demonstrate it can refuel the lander in Earth orbit in a complicated procedure after takeoff so it can carry out its lunar mission.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A launch of its Lanyue lander, equipped to carry two taikonauts to the lunar surface, “validated” its landing and takeoff system, state media reported.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Well, then, Tower Buzzers: You are cleared for takeoff.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

"For a normal route, it would fly all-electric from takeoff to landing," he explained.

Read more on BBC

Alaska is the only other major U.S. airline that offers a refund on an extra seat, as long as there’s at least one open seat on the flight at takeoff.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blastoff 
• departure 
• liftoff