helicopter

hel-i-cop-ter · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An aircraft that derives its lift from rotating blades (rotors) that spin horizontally, allowing it to take off and land vertically, hover, and fly in any direction.

  2. 2.

    (as verb) To transport by helicopter.

Forms

plural: helicopters

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    helicopter parent — a parent who is overly involved in their child's life
  • •
    helicopter view — an overview or broad perspective of a situation

Related words

See also: aircraft, aviation, chopper, rotor
Synonyms: chopper, rotorcraft, whirlybird

Etymology

From French hélicoptère, coined in 1861 from Greek helix ("spiral") + pteron ("wing"). The modern helicopter was developed in the early 20th century.