Definition

The area in an aircraft where the pilot and co-pilot sit and control the plane.

Example

The pilot checked all the instruments in the cockpit before takeoff.

Conversation

Have you ever been inside a cockpit of an airplane?

No, I haven't, but it sounds fascinating!

I got to sit in one during a tour, and it was really cool to see all the controls.

That must have been an amazing experience! I'd love to try that someday.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cockpit → The word is derived from the combination of "cock" (from Middle English *cok*, meaning a male bird, particularly a rooster) and "pit" (from Old English *pytt*, meaning a hole or pit). Originally, a cockpit referred to a pit for fighting cocks, and later evolved to describe the area in an aircraft where the pilot sits.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pit' where 'cocks' (roosters) might fight, which helps you remember that a cockpit is the area where the pilot controls the aircraft.

Visually Confused Words