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noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

takeoff

Takeoff (noun) means the moment a plane, rocket, bird, or jumper leaves the ground and becomes airborne. Example: “The pilot announced a short delay before takeoff.”

noun
1
The moment a plane, rocket, bird, or jumper leaves the ground and becomes airborne.
"The pilot announced a short delay before takeoff."
"The long jumper timed her takeoff perfectly at the board."
2
A comic imitation or parody of someone or something.
"The sketch was a takeoff of a famous action movie."

How to use takeoff

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe point where something leaves the ground — literally (a plane) or figuratively (a comedy sketch spoofing something).

Common pairings
takeoff and landing cleared for takeoff a comedic takeoff

Word forms

takeoffs plural

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Test yourself on “takeoff” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The pilot announced a short delay before _____.

Etymology

Formed from the phrasal verb take off, in the sense of "lifting into the air."

Related words

Rhymes for takeoff

See all rhymes for takeoff →

Frequently asked questions

What does “takeoff” mean?

The word “takeoff” means the moment a plane, rocket, bird, or jumper leaves the ground and becomes airborne. In plain terms, the point where something leaves the ground — literally (a plane) or figuratively (a comedy sketch spoofing something).

How do you use “takeoff” in a sentence?

Here is “takeoff” used in a sentence: “The pilot announced a short delay before takeoff.”

What is another word for “takeoff”?

Words with a similar meaning to “takeoff” include liftoff.

What part of speech is “takeoff”?

“Takeoff” is a noun.

Is “takeoff” a common word?

“Takeoff” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

How many meanings does “takeoff” have?

“Takeoff” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the moment a plane, rocket, bird, or jumper leaves the ground and becomes airborne.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial