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

Tracking data show that the plane climbed to 75 feet above the runway, veered right and then nosed into a sudden, steep dive seconds after its 8:08 p.m. takeoff.

From Los Angeles Times

A preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board reveals that the aircraft had insufficient power and needed to be charged shortly before takeoff.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• blastoff
• departure
• liftoff