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Definition of gyrocopter

gyrocopter

/ˈdʒaɪ.roʊˌkɑːp.tɚ/
gy · ro · cop · ter
Plural:gyrocopters
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gyrocopter Lexical Profile

gyrocopter Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A type of rotorcraft that uses an unpowered overhead rotor in free autorotation to develop lift, combined with an engine-powered propeller to provide forward thrust.

Example

"The pilot flew the lightweight gyrocopter low over the coastline to survey the marine wildlife."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gyrocopter

Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike a helicopter, whose rotor is directly powered by an engine to generate both lift and thrust, a gyrocopter relies on an unpowered overhead rotor that spins passively through the air as an engine-driven propeller pushes or pulls the aircraft forward.

• Nearby Words

gyration
gyrfalcon
gyro
gyrocopter
gyroscope
gyroscopic
ha

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1940s as a blend of 'autogiro' (from Ancient Greek gyros, meaning 'circle') and 'helicopter' (from Greek helix, 'spiral', and pteron, 'wing').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gyrocopter. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gyrocopter
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