aircraft
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of aircraft
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How does aircraft compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
A machine that can fly, held aloft in the air, is called an aircraft. Airplanes and helicopters are two types of aircraft. Some aircraft, such as helicopters, fly by using rotary wings — spinning blades that directly generate lift. Airplanes use engines to turn propellers or power gas turbines, providing the thrust needed to move air over their wings and create lift. Still other aircraft, including hot-air balloons, achieve lift through buoyancy, by using gases that are lighter than the surrounding air. Balloons and airships, including blimps and dirigibles, were actually the first vehicles referred to as aircraft, a term adapted from nautical terminology.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The company said it has been in Garden Grove since 1966, and more than 500 employees work at the facility, which manufactures windows and canopies for aircraft and spacecraft.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026
Born Norma Jeane Mortenson, Monroe grew up in foster homes and was discovered by an army photographer while working in an aircraft factory during World War Two.
From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026
In 2014, Brazil decided to purchase 36 Gripen E/F fighter jets produced by aircraft manufacturer Saab in a deal valued at $4.5 billion.
From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026
“Castlelake’s experience in aircraft leasing may suggest this could be the plan,” the analysts say.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 3, 2026
Because of yet another issue over aircraft types, Lilya and Katya soon transferred again so they could continue flying their familiar Yaks.
From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
