lighter-than-air

American  

[lahy-ter-thuhn-air] / ˈlaɪ tər ðənˈɛər /

adjective

Aeronautics.

1. (of an aircraft) weighing less than the air it displaces, hence obtaining lift from aerostatic buoyancy.

2. of or relating to lighter-than-air craft.

---

lighter than air British  

adjective

1. having a lower density than that of air

2. of or relating to an aircraft, such as a balloon or airship, that depends on buoyancy for support in the air

---

Etymology

Origin of lighter-than-air

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

For one thing, the ship gets its lift from helium – a lighter-than-air gas that does not burn.

From NewsForKids.net • Dec. 7, 2023

Its balloon program could collapse if the United States decides to notify other countries when lighter-than-air vehicles are heading their way.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 12, 2023

Beijing also reportedly test-fired a new hypersonic missile from a floating airship in 2018, highlighting the military’s interest and multiple uses for lighter-than-air aircraft.

From Washington Times • Feb. 6, 2023

“Despechá” — abbreviated slang for spiteful — is a lighter-than-air, mambo-nodding dance-floor anthem, and an invitation to join the ranks of the Motomamis.

From New York Times • Dec. 7, 2022

The lighter-than-air craft, which belonged first to the army and then to the navy, were a valuable link between the two wings.

From The War in the Air; Vol. 1 The Part played in the Great War by the Royal Air Force by Raleigh, Walter Alexander, Sir