Definition

To land an aircraft in a flat, controlled manner, similar to how a pancake lies flat.

Example

The pilot had to pancake the plane to ensure a safe landing.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that pilot pancake the plane during landing yesterday?

Yeah, it was pretty impressive how smoothly they did it!

I wonder how much training it takes to pancake like that.

Probably a lot! It's definitely a skill to master.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A flat, round cake made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, cooked on a hot surface until both sides are brown.

Example

I love having pancakes with syrup for breakfast.

Conversation

I made some delicious pancakes for breakfast today!

That sounds amazing! What kind did you make?

I made classic buttermilk pancakes with syrup.

Definition

To make an aircraft land flat on its belly, usually in an emergency situation.

Example

The pilot had to pancake the plane due to engine failure.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the pilot who had to pancake the plane during the storm?

Yeah, that's so scary! I can't believe they managed to land safely.

I know! It's incredible how skilled pilots are in those situations.

Root Explanation

Pancake → The word is formed from "pan" (from Old English *panna*, meaning a cooking vessel) and "cake" (from Old Norse *kaka*, meaning a baked flour confection). A pancake is a cake cooked in a pan.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pan' as the cooking vessel and 'cake' as a baked treat — that's how you remember that a pancake is a cake made in a pan.

Visually Confused Words