Definition

A type of vehicle that can fly through the air, usually with wings and powered by engines or propellers.

Example

The airplane took off smoothly from the runway.

Conversation

Did you see that airplane flying over us earlier?

Yeah, it was so low! I wonder where it's headed.

I love watching airplanes take off and land at the airport.

Same here! It's fascinating to think about all the places they go.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Airplane is formed from "air" (from Old English "aer", meaning the atmosphere or sky) and "plane" (from Latin "planus", meaning flat or level). The word "airplane" refers to a flat or level vehicle that travels through the air.

Memory Tip

Think of 'air' as the atmosphere and 'plane' as something flat — an airplane is a flat vehicle that travels through the air.

Visually Confused Words