Definition

A type of flying machine that uses flapping wings for lift and movement, resembling a bird or insect in flight.

Example

The inventor showcased his latest design for an ornithopter at the aviation conference.

Conversation

Have you ever seen an ornithopter in action?

No, I haven't! What is it exactly?

It's a machine that flies by flapping its wings like a bird.

That sounds amazing! I'd love to see one fly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ornithopter → It is formed from "ornitho-" (from Greek "ornithos", meaning bird) and "-pteron" (from Greek "pteron", meaning wing). The word "ornithopter" refers to a flying machine that flies by flapping its wings like a bird.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for bird ('ornithos') and the word for wing ('pteron') to remember that an ornithopter is a machine that mimics a bird's wings to fly.

Visually Confused Words