aeronautics

noun

plural in form but singular in construction
Synonyms of aeronauticsnext
1
: a science dealing with the operation of aircraft
2
: the art or science of flight

Word History

Etymology

aeronautic "of or relating to the art or science of flight" (borrowed from New Latin aëronauticus, from Greek aero- aero- + nautikós "of ships, of seafaring") + -ics — more at nautical

First Known Use

1798, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aeronautics was in 1798

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aeronautics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aeronautics. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

aeronautics

noun
1
: a science dealing with the operation of aircraft
2
: the art or science of flight
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