Definition

Describing something that does not have the ability to fly or is not capable of flying.

Example

The nonflying birds on the island have adapted to their environment in unique ways.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a nonflying bird in real life?

Yeah, I saw an ostrich at the zoo last week!

They're fascinating because they’re so big and can’t fly at all.

I know, right? It's amazing how they adapt to their environment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonflying → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "flying" (from the verb "fly", which comes from Old English "flēogan", meaning to move through the air). The word "nonflying" describes something that does not have the ability to fly.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with the action of 'moving through the air' ('flying') — that's why nonflying means something that cannot fly.

Visually Confused Words