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

AeroVironment is responsible for the helicopters’ rotor systems, airframes, structures, avionics integration, and accommodation for science payloads, the company said in a press release. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 1 Sep. 2026

Damaged components could potentially be swapped without disturbing separate wiring assemblies running through the airframe. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 31 Aug. 2026

But not all existing narrowbody Airbus and Boeing airframes will get upgraded, spokesperson Andrea Koos clarifies in an email. — Rob Pegoraro, PC Magazine, 19 Aug. 2026

Now, Archer, working in close partnership with Anduril, has introduced the Halo, a commercial variant sharing the same core airframe and systems, sans the weaponry. — David Szondy august 04, New Atlas, 4 Aug. 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