Airport

Definition

Airport is a noun that refers to a facility where aircraft, including airplanes and helicopters, can take off, land, and be maintained. It typically includes runways, hangars, terminals, and other infrastructure necessary for air transportation.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɛrˌpɔrt/
• Respelling: AIR-port

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈeəˌpɔːt/
• Respelling: AIR-port

Etymology

The word "airport" combines "air," related to aviation, with "port," a place for arrivals and departures. It originated in the early 20th century as aviation became more common, with "port" symbolizing a hub or gateway, akin to a seaport.

Derivatives

• Airport terminal (noun)
• Airport security (noun)
• Airporter (noun, informal)
• Airside (noun/adjective)
• Airport lounge (noun)

Synonyms

• Airfield
• Airstrip
• Landing strip

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "airport" is commonly used to refer to a location where people board and disembark from airplanes, with associated facilities for passenger and cargo handling. For example, "He arrived at the airport two hours before his flight," or "The city has plans to expand its airport to accommodate more travelers."

Related Terms

• Runway: A strip of land used for takeoff and landing of aircraft.
• Terminal: A building at an airport where passengers embark and disembark.
• Hangar: A large building used for storing and maintaining aircraft.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A facility for aircraft takeoffs, landings, and passenger services: Refers to a structured area for handling aircraft and passengers, complete with runways, terminals, and related services.
  • Example: "The airport is undergoing renovations to improve passenger experience."
• A transportation hub for air travel: Denotes a central place where flights connect, allowing passengers to transfer between flights.
  • Example: "Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in Europe."