UFO

[ yoo-ef-ohor, sometimes, yoo-foh ]

abbreviation for

, plural UFO's, UFOs.

1. unidentified flying object: any unexplained moving object observed in the sky, especially one assumed by some observers to be of extraterrestrial origin. Compare UAP ( def ), flying saucer ( def ).

UFO

/ ˈjuːfəʊ /

abbreviation for

1. unidentified flying object

UFO

¹

1. The abbreviation for u nidentified f lying o bject. Sometimes referred to colloquially as “flying saucers.” Most UFO sightings have prosaic explanations; there is no hard evidence that extraterrestrial beings are visiting Earth .

UFO

²

1. An abbreviation for “ U nidentified F lying O bject.” Often described as “flying saucers,” some UFOs are believed to come from other planets or galaxies and thus support the idea that human beings are not the only form of intelligent life in the universe. Few scientists agree.

Usage Note

See UAP.

Word History and Origins

Origin of UFO¹

First recorded 1950–55

Example Sentences

"John Ratcliffe was just on Fox News talking about UFO Disclosure," writes one person in a post to X, sharing a clip from 2021.

From Salon

Along the highway east of town, you will probably encounter Coyote, a 67-year-old junkyard proprietor with a booming baritone voice and a truck that says “UFO retrieval and repairs.”

From Los Angeles Times

In the past he has spoken with Salon about everything from debunking UFO hoaxes to understanding Dyson spheres.

From Salon

The label for one Amanita candy brand — Stoned — offered a more colorful description, boasting that three gummies would cause “UFO sightings” and four an “alien abduction.”

From Los Angeles Times

Abrams’ sober Showtime series “UFO” and James Fox’s cult hit “The Phenomenon” proved the topic is compelling beyond red-eyed History Channel marathons.

From Los Angeles Times