airframe

noun

air·​frame ˈer-ˌfrām 

: the structure of an aircraft, rocket vehicle, or missile without the power plant

also : aircraft

Examples of airframe in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This setup uses the aircraft's existing control interfaces and requires no structural modifications to the airframe or avionics. —David Szondy june 07, New Atlas, 7 June 2026

These tests confirm the technical readiness of Jackal’s airframe, propulsion, navigation and autopilot systems. —Aditya Jadhav, Interesting Engineering, 3 June 2026

The company supplies airframe and engine structures and landing gear, among other aerospace products. —Nathaniel Percy, Oc Register, 26 May 2026

Once there, a three-person launch team assembles the airframe, attaches the wings, installs the propulsion and control systems, and fits the payload. —Vikram Mittal, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for airframe

• acclaim
• aflame
• ballgame
• became
• declaim
• defame
• disclaim
• doorframe
• exclaim
• inflame
• mainframe
• nickname

Kids Definition

airframe

noun

air·​frame ˈa(ə)r-ˌfrām 

ˈe(ə)r-

: the structure of an aircraft, rocket vehicle, or missile without the engine and related parts