takeoff

or take-off

[ teyk-awf, -of ]

noun

1. a taking or setting off; the leaving of the ground, as in leaping or in beginning a flight in an airplane.
2. a taking off from a starting point, as in beginning a race.
3. the place or point at which a person or thing takes off.
4. a humorous or satirical imitation; burlesque.
5. Machinery. a shaft geared to a main shaft for running auxiliary machinery.
6. a branch connection to a pipe, electric line, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of takeoff¹

First recorded in 1820–30; noun use of verb phrase take off

Example Sentences

Like winged creatures of the sky it draws its nickname from, the bird of paradise seems always ready for takeoff, angling itself toward the light of better tomorrows, or at least the possibility of them.

From Los Angeles Times

This obscure and hilariously outrageous takeoff on the genre of Italian opera buffa, written in 1846, turned out to be the hit of the weekend.

From Los Angeles Times

But when the pilot attempted to prepare for takeoff, the right engine would not start because of insufficient battery power, according to the report.

From Los Angeles Times

It has also been under scrutiny since an incident in January when a defect caused a panel to blow out on a new Alaska Airlines Boeing 737-MAX jet shortly after takeoff.

From BBC

The air taxis can use existing helicopter infrastructure for takeoff and landing, Allison said, but at least some helipads will need to be enabled with electric charging to power the taxis.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blastoff
• departure
• liftoff