sailplane

/ˌseɪlˈpleɪn/
IPA guide

Other forms: sailplanes; sailplaning

Definitions of sailplane
  1. noun
    aircraft supported only by the dynamic action of air against its surfaces
    synonyms: glider
    see moresee less
    types:
    hang glider
    a glider resembling a large kite; the rider hangs from it while descending from a height
    type of:
    heavier-than-air craft
    a non-buoyant aircraft that requires a source of power to hold it aloft and to propel it
  2. verb
    fly a plane without an engine
    synonyms: soar
    see moresee less
    type of:
    glide
    fly in or as if in a glider plane
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘sailplane'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family