landing
UK: ˈlændɪŋ | US: ˈlændɪŋ
n. the act of coming down to the ground or another surface (e.g., an aircraft or ship)
n. a platform or area where people or goods are unloaded (e.g., a landing in a building)
n. the termination of a flight or voyage
The word "landing" derives from the Old English "land" (ground, earth) combined with the suffix "-ing," which forms nouns indicating an action or result. Originally tied to the physical act of touching ground (e.g., ships or birds), it expanded to include architectural platforms (mid-19th century) due to their functional resemblance to disembarking points. The logic reflects a progression from action (landing a vessel) to place (landing as a structure).
The airplane made a smooth landing despite the storm.
She waited at the top of the staircase’s landing.
The lunar landing was a historic achievement.
The ferry’s landing was crowded with passengers.
The pilot practiced emergency landings during training.