Flying

Definition

Flying is a noun, adjective, and verb. As a noun, it refers to the act of traveling through the air. As an adjective, it describes something that moves or functions in the air. As a verb (present participle of "fly"), it indicates the action of traveling through the air or moving swiftly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective
• Verb (present participle of "fly")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈflaɪɪŋ/
• Respelling: FLY-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈflaɪɪŋ/
• Respelling: FLY-ing

Etymology

The word "flying" originates from the Old English "flēogan," meaning "to move through the air," derived from Proto-Germanic "*fleuganą" and Proto-Indo-European "*plewk-," meaning "to fly or float." It has maintained its core meaning across centuries.

Derivatives

• Flyer (noun)
• Flight (noun)
• Flyingly (adverb)
• Overflying (verb)
• Flyable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Soaring
• Gliding
• Aviation

Antonyms

• Landing
• Grounded
• Stationary

Usage

The term "flying" is used in contexts related to air travel, movement through the air, or metaphorically to describe speed or agility. For example, "She enjoys flying in small aircraft," or "The bird was flying gracefully through the sky."

Related Terms

• Aviation: The operation or development of aircraft.
• Gliding: Moving smoothly and silently through the air without propulsion.
• Soaring: Flying at a great height or distance, typically without power.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act or process of traveling through the air: Refers to the motion of an object or organism in the air.
  • Example: "The art of flying has fascinated humans for centuries."
• Aviation or air travel: Denotes the practice or activity of piloting or traveling in aircraft.
  • Example: "Commercial flying has revolutionized global connectivity."

Adjective

• Capable of or involving flight: Describes objects, creatures, or vehicles that move through the air.
  • Example: "The flying squirrel glided between the trees."
• Swift or moving rapidly: Used metaphorically to describe quick movement.
  • Example: "She made a flying leap across the stream."

Verb (present participle of 'fly')

• To travel or move through the air: Refers to the action of flying.
  • Example: "The bird is flying south for the winter."
• To move or operate swiftly: Describes rapid or agile movement.
  • Example: "She was flying down the track during the race."