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Aircraft

Vehicle capable of flight through the air.

airplane aeroplane

An aircraft is a vehicle capable of flight through the air, typically supported by aerodynamic forces generated from wings or rotors. It includes fixed-wing airplanes, helicopters, gliders, and other airborne vehicles powered by engines or carried by air currents.

Pronunciation

/ˈeərˌkræft/

Etymology

From French aéro- + English craft.

Explain Like I’m 5

Aircraft are machines that can fly, like airplanes and helicopters, using engines and wings to stay in the air.

Fun Facts

The Wright brothers' first successful aircraft, the Wright Flyer, flew for only 12 seconds
Helicopters can hover in mid-air
Gliders rely on air currents to stay aloft

FAQ

What is an aircraft? A vehicle capable of flight through the air
What powers most aircraft? Jet engines or propellers
How do wings help an aircraft fly? They create lift, which counteracts gravity

Synonyms — Similar or Related Terms

aeroplane airplane

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

vehicle transportation

Hyponyms — Specific Examples

airplane helicopter glider airship

Meronyms — Parts or Components

wings fuselage engine

Holonyms — Wholes or Groups

aviation transportation system

Indexes

mechanical mobile platform transportation

Related

Built by Tim Jones