helicopter

American  

[hel-i-kop-ter, hee-li-] / ˈhɛl ɪˌkɒp tər, ˈhi lɪ- /

noun

1. any of a class of heavier-than-air craft that are lifted and sustained in the air horizontally by rotating wings or blades turning on vertical axes through power supplied by an engine.

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verb (used without object)

1. to fly in a helicopter.

verb (used with object)

1. to convey in a helicopter.

helicopter British  

/ ˈhɛlɪˌkɒptə /

noun

1. an aircraft capable of hover, vertical flight, and horizontal flight in any direction. Most get all of their lift and propulsion from the rotation of overhead blades See also autogiro

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verb

1. to transport (people or things) or (of people or things) to be transported by helicopter

Etymology

Origin of helicopter

From the French word hélicoptère, dating back to 1885–90. See helico-, -pter

Example Sentences

In Sri Lanka meanwhile, the government called for international aid and used military helicopters to reach people stranded by flooding and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah.

From Barron's

Today the helicopter pilot is a “bitcoin and chill” guy: he invests in bitcoin and bitcoin-related companies, and said his holdings are up to around $1 million.

From The Wall Street Journal

"The police helicopter has arrived for land and air battle to free the abducted worshippers," Fanwo told AFP.

From Barron's

India was the first to respond, sending relief supplies and two helicopters with crew to carry out rescue missions.

From Barron's

Rescue boats, two helicopters and a specialist search and rescue aircraft have been deployed to the area.

From BBC

Related Words

• chopper