airborne
UK: ˈeə.bɔːn | US: ˈer.bɔːrn
adj. carried by or through the air (e.g., airborne particles)
adj. (of military troops) trained to parachute from aircraft
adj. (of an aircraft) in flight
airborne = air<atmosphere> + borne<carried>
- air: From Old French air, Latin aer (atmosphere), ultimately Greek aēr (air, mist).
- borne: Past participle of bear (to carry), from Old English beran, Proto-Germanic beraną.
Etymology Origin:
The word airborne emerged in the early 20th century, combining air (the medium) and borne (the state of being carried). Initially used for particles or pathogens dispersed in the air, it gained military significance during WWII to describe paratroopers and aerial operations. The logic reflects a literal fusion of "air" + "carried," extending metaphorically to troops and aircraft.
The virus can become airborne in crowded spaces.
Airborne troops were deployed behind enemy lines.
The drone remained airborne for over six hours.
Pollen counts rise when allergens go airborne.
The plane was officially declared airborne at 10:15 AM.