sailplane
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈseɪlˌpleɪn/
KK: /ˈseɪlˌpleɪn/
intransitive verb
Definition
To fly a type of aircraft that is designed to glide without an engine.
Example
He loves to sailplane on weekends when the weather is nice.
Tense Forms
Past: sailplaned
Past Participle: sailplaned
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how amazing it would be to sailplane?
That sounds incredible! I’ve always wanted to try it.
I heard it's such a peaceful way to fly.
Definitely! I’d love to feel the wind up there.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
glide
soar
hover
Antonyms
plummet
descend
sink
noun
Definition
A type of light aircraft designed to glide through the air without an engine, often used for soaring and flying long distances.
Example
The sailplane soared gracefully above the mountains, taking advantage of the rising air currents.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a sailplane in action?
No, I haven't! What’s special about them?
They’re really cool because they can soar high without an engine.
Root Explanation
Sailplane → It is formed from "sail" (from Old English *segel*, meaning a piece of fabric used to catch wind) and "plane" (from Latin *planus*, meaning flat or level). The word "sailplane" refers to a type of aircraft that glides through the air using its wings, much like a sail catches the wind.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'sail' that catches the wind and a 'plane' that is flat — together, they describe an aircraft that glides smoothly through the air.
Visually Confused Words
mailplane
seaplane
airplane
silane