ballonet

noun

bal·​lo·​net ˌba-lə-ˈnā How to pronounce ballonet (audio)
: a compartment of variable volume within the interior of a balloon or airship used to control ascent and descent

Word History

Etymology

French ballonnet, diminutive of ballon

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ballonet was in 1872

Dictionary Entries Near ballonet

Cite this Entry

“Ballonet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ballonet. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

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