air pocket

American  

noun

1. (not in technical use) a nearly vertical air current that can cause an aircraft to experience a sudden change in altitude, usually a decrease.

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air pocket British  

noun

1. a localized region of low air density or a descending air current, causing an aircraft to suffer an abrupt decrease in height

2. any pocket of air that prevents the flow of a liquid or gas, as in a pipe

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Etymology

Origin of air pocket

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

air pocket

The cylinder will be placed inside a metallic bell that leaves an air pocket that is supposed to keep moisture out of the inner chamber.

From Barron's ● Jul. 2, 2026

Whether India surpasses last year's $18bn figure remains uncertain because of the current "geopolitical air pocket", says Abrol of Grant Thornton.

From BBC ● May 24, 2026

Whenever the message left the faithful underwhelmed, the stocks hit an air pocket and fell.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 22, 2026

Somehow, before his arms became completely sealed up in snow, he punched a small air pocket in front of his face.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 13, 2024

My heart started racing as I kicked upward and broke the surface of the air pocket.

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda