helicopter
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈhɛlɪˌkɒptə/
KK: /ˈhɛlɪˌkɒptər/
noun
Definition
A type of aircraft that flies by using rotating blades to lift off the ground and move through the air.
Example
The helicopter flew over the city, providing a stunning view from above.
Conversation
Did you see that helicopter flying over the park yesterday?
Yeah, it was really loud! I wonder what it was doing.
I heard they sometimes use helicopters for news coverage.
That makes sense! It’s a great way to see everything from above.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chopper
copter
rotorcraft
Antonyms
transitive verb
Definition
A type of aircraft that has rotating blades on top and can fly vertically and horizontally.
Example
The rescue team used a helicopter to reach the stranded hikers.
Conversation
Did you hear about the tour that will helicopter us around the city?
That sounds amazing! I’ve never been in a helicopter before.
I know, right? It would be such a cool way to see everything from above.
Root Explanation
Helicopter → It is formed from "helix" (from Greek ἕλικα, meaning spiral or twist) and "pteron" (from Greek πτερόν, meaning wing). The word "helicopter" describes a vehicle that has wings that rotate in a spiral motion to achieve flight.
Memory Tip
Imagine a vehicle with 'spiral wings' — 'helix' means spiral, and 'pteron' means wing, which helps you remember that a helicopter is a flying machine with rotating wings.
Visually Confused Words
phenicopter