Flight

Definition

Flight refers to the act of flying or moving through the air, typically by birds, aircraft, or other objects. It can also mean a journey made by air or the act of fleeing from danger or a situation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /flaɪt/
• Respelling: flyt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /flaɪt/
• Respelling: flyt

Etymology

The word "flight" originates from the Old English "flyht," meaning "a flying or taking flight," derived from the Proto-Germanic "*fluhtiz*" and Proto-Indo-European "*pleuk-*," which relates to flying or flowing. Over time, its usage expanded to include both physical flying and metaphorical meanings.

Derivatives

• Flightless (adjective)
• Fly (verb)
• In-flight (adjective)
• Overflight (noun)
• Flighted (adjective)

Synonyms

• Flying
• Journey
• Escape

Antonyms

• Landing
• Arrival
• Capture

Usage

The word "flight" is widely used in contexts involving aviation, movement, or escape. For example, "The bird took flight at dawn," or "The flight to New York was delayed due to weather conditions."

Related Terms

• Aviation: The operation or design of aircraft.
• Escape: The act of breaking free from a situation.
• Altitude: The height or elevation at which flight occurs.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of flying or being airborne: Refers to movement through the air by birds, aircraft, or other objects.
  • Example: "The eagle’s graceful flight was mesmerizing."
• A journey made by air: Describes travel using an aircraft.
  • Example: "The flight to London took eight hours."
• The act of fleeing or running away: Refers to escape or avoidance of danger or a situation.
  • Example: "The refugees were in flight from the conflict zone."
• A set of stairs between landings: Describes architectural features.
  • Example: "The building had three flights of stairs."