fleet

UK: fliːt | US: fliːt

Definition

  1. n. a group of ships or vehicles operating together

  2. adj. swift or rapid in movement

  3. v. to move swiftly or pass quickly

Structure
fleet <swift>
Etymology

The word "fleet" originates from Old English flēot, meaning "swift" or "floating," reflecting its dual association with speed and ships. Over time, it evolved to describe both a group of ships (emphasizing collective movement) and rapid motion itself. The semantic connection lies in the idea of swiftness—whether applied to naval vessels or general motion.

Examples

  1. The naval fleet set sail at dawn.

  2. Her fleet fingers typed the report in minutes.

  3. Time seemed to fleet by during the vacation.

  4. The company manages a fleet of delivery trucks.

  5. A fleet of birds crossed the sky at sunset.