airframe
Americannoun
noun
Etymology
Origin of airframe
First recorded in 1930–35; air(plane) + frame
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.
“I don’t think they have made a decision yet, but we are working with them,” he said, adding that it would take about six to seven years to develop the engine and airframe.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026
“Even though the airframe from the original concept is quite old, the Air Force has stayed up with modifications,” said J. F. Joseph, a retired airline pilot and U.S.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 16, 2026
The planes have been upgraded, but the costs of maintaining the airframe and engines are growing.
From BBC ● May 17, 2025
"So, in this study, we have closely examined the various factors that contribute to the noise produced by the embedded ducted fans installed on curved airframe surfaces."
From Science Daily ● Apr. 18, 2024
She turned back steeply, lost no height, and swore again as the airframe shuddered, automatic flaps clattering alarmingly as the plane tried to decide what speed it was flying.
From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein
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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.