aviator

American  

[ey-vee-ey-ter, av-ee-] / ˈeɪ viˌeɪ tər, ˈæv i- /

noun

1. a pilot of an airplane or other heavier-than-air aircraft.

2. aviators, aviator glasses.

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aviator British  

/ ˈeɪvɪˌeɪtə /

noun

1. old-fashioned the pilot of an aeroplane or airship; flyer

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Other Word Forms

• aviatrix noun

Etymology

Origin of aviator

1885–90; < French aviateur. See aviation ( def. ), -eur ( def. )

Example Sentences

The Army had said it was investigating, adding, “Army aviators must adhere to strict safety standards, professionalism, and established flight regulations.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Reid Wiseman, a 50-year-old former naval aviator and test pilot who was also a deputy chief of NASA's astronaut office, will be in command.

From Barron's

“Army aviators must adhere to strict safety standards, professionalism, and established flight regulations.”

From The Wall Street Journal

The tactical skill with which our aviators and missile defenders are using advanced U.S. tech is astounding.

From The Wall Street Journal

Reid Wiseman, a 50-year-old former naval aviator and test pilot who also formerly served as a deputy chief of NASA's astronaut office, will be in command.

From Barron's

Related Words

• flier
• navigator
• pilot