Definition

A close flight past a target, often used by spacecraft to gather information without landing or entering orbit.

Example

The spacecraft completed a flyby of Mars, capturing stunning images of the planet's surface.

Conversation

Did you hear about the flyby that NASA is planning next month?

Yeah, I read about it! It sounds super exciting.

I can't wait to see the images they capture during the flyby.

Same here! It's amazing what technology can do these days.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Flyby → It is formed from "fly" (from Old English "flēogan", meaning to move through the air) and "by" (meaning near or beside). The word "flyby" refers to the act of flying past a point or object, typically in a close approach.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'moves through the air' ('fly') and goes 'near' ('by') — that's what a flyby means.

Visually Confused Words