Definition

The movement of an aircraft on the ground before takeoff or after landing.

Example

The plane was taxiing down the runway before taking off.

Conversation

Did you see how smoothly the plane was taxiing on the runway?

Yeah, it looked really professional!

I always find that part so fascinating to watch.

Same here! It's like the calm before the storm of takeoff.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

The action of an aircraft moving slowly on the ground before takeoff or after landing.

Example

The airplane was taxiing down the runway before taking off.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see that plane taxiing on the runway?

Yeah, it looked pretty cool as it got ready for takeoff.

I always find it fascinating to watch the planes taxiing before flying.

Root Explanation

Taxiing → The word 'taxiing' originates from the term 'taxi' (from French 'taxi', derived from 'taximètre', meaning a meter for measuring distance). The suffix '-ing' indicates the action of the verb. Therefore, 'taxiing' refers to the action of an aircraft moving on the ground before takeoff or after landing, similar to how a taxi moves to pick up passengers.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'taxi' as a vehicle that moves to pick up passengers, and when you add '-ing', it describes the action of that vehicle moving. So, 'taxiing' is like a taxi moving on the ground.

Visually Confused Words