compressed air

American  

noun

1. air compressed, especially by mechanical means, to a pressure higher than the surrounding atmospheric pressure.

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compressed air British  

noun

1. air at a higher pressure than atmospheric pressure: used esp as a source of power for machines

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Etymology

Origin of compressed air

First recorded in 1660–70

Example Sentences

StarChase uses compressed air to launch a GPS tracker from a police vehicle onto a fleeing car.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Vanguard also will include a floating structure on the surface of the water to transport compressed air, power the vessel, and allow for communication with the outside world.

From Barron's • Oct. 29, 2025

A professional will inspect your ducts, assess debris levels, access the entire duct system, and use tools like brushes, compressed air and vacuuming to remove accumulated dirt, dust and debris.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 26, 2024

As well as avoiding bags of rice, it also advises against drying a wet phone using an "external heat source or compressed air", meaning radiators and hairdryers should be avoided.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2024

The bus turned down the street and stopped with a hiss of compressed air in front of the Trailways station.

From "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls