helicopter
helicopter Lexical Profile
helicopter Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A type of aircraft that derives both lift and propulsion from one or more sets of horizontally revolving overhead rotors, capable of taking off and landing vertically.
"The rescue team dispatched a helicopter to airlift the stranded hikers from the mountain."
• verb
To transport or fly someone or something in a helicopter.
"The critically injured patient was helicoptered to the nearest trauma center."
To hover closely over or closely supervise someone, especially a child (often used in the context of overprotective parenting).
"Parents who helicopter over their children may inadvertently hinder their independence and problem-solving skills."
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed from French hélicoptère, coined in 1861 by Gustave de Ponton d'Amécourt, from Greek helix (spiral) and pteron (wing).
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.