air
air Lexical Profile
air Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth, a mixture mainly of oxygen and nitrogen that humans and animals breathe.
"We stepped outside the cabin to breathe the crisp mountain air."
The open space above the ground where aircraft and birds fly; the sky.
"The hawk circled high in the air before diving toward the field."
A distinctive impression, quality, or demeanor given by a person, place, or situation.
"She answered the panel's difficult questions with an air of quiet confidence."
A tune or expressive melody for voice or instrument, especially in classical music or opera.
"The violinist played a hauntingly beautiful traditional Scottish air."
• verb
To broadcast or be broadcast on television, radio, or the internet.
"The documentary on marine conservation is scheduled to air next Tuesday evening."
To express an opinion, grievance, or issue publicly so that others are aware of it.
"The town hall meeting gave residents an opportunity to air their concerns about traffic."
To expose a room, building, or fabric to fresh or warm air in order to ventilate, dry, or freshen it.
"We opened all the windows to air the cottage after the long winter."
Word Nuance & Usage
Should not be confused with its homophone 'heir' (a person legally entitled to the property or rank of another). In the plural form 'airs' (as in 'putting on airs'), it specifically refers to an affected, pretentious, or condescending manner.
• Rhymes for air
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Middle English, from Old French air, via Latin aer from Ancient Greek aēr ('mist, haze, or lower atmosphere').