Definition

A type of aircraft that floats in the air, like a balloon or blimp, and rises because it is filled with a gas that is lighter than the surrounding air.

Example

The aerostat floated gracefully above the festival, providing a unique view of the celebrations below.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an aerostat in the sky?

Yeah, I saw one last summer at the festival.

They look so cool, floating effortlessly like that.

I know! I wish I could go up in an aerostat someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aerostat → It is formed from "aero-" (from Greek "aēr", meaning air) and "stat" (from Greek "statos", meaning standing or stationary). The word "aerostat" refers to a device that is buoyed by air, such as a balloon, which stands or floats in the air.

Memory Tip

Think of 'air' ('aero-') and something that is 'standing' ('stat') — an aerostat is something that stands or floats in the air.

Visually Confused Words