skyjacking
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈskaɪˌdʒækɪŋ/
KK: /ˈskaɪˌdʒækɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of taking control of an airplane by force, often involving the kidnapping of passengers.
Example
The news reported a skyjacking that occurred during a flight to New York.
Conversation
Did you hear about that recent skyjacking incident on the news?
Yeah, it was all over social media!
It's so scary to think about what passengers must feel during a skyjacking.
I know, right? I can't imagine being in that situation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hijacking
abduction
seizure
Antonyms
safety
security
freedom
verb
Definition
To seize control of an aircraft by force, often while it is in flight.
Example
The criminals attempted skyjacking to demand a ransom from the government.
Tense Forms
Past: skyjacked
Past Participle: skyjacked
Conversation
Did you hear about that movie where they skyjacking a plane?
Yeah, I can’t believe they made that into a film!
I thought it was pretty intense, especially the skyjacking scenes.
Root Explanation
Skyjacking is formed from "sky" (meaning the expanse of air above the earth) and "jacking" (derived from the verb "jack", meaning to seize or take by force). The term refers to the act of seizing control of an aircraft while it is in flight, typically through force or threat.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone taking control of an aircraft in the 'sky' — that's why 'skyjacking' means to seize a plane in the air.
Visually Confused Words
sacking