flier

noun

fli·​er ˈflī(-ə)r 

variants or less commonly flyer

1

: one that flies

She's a frequent flier on that airline.

specifically : airman

He was a flier on an aircraft carrier.

2

: a reckless or speculative venture

—usually used in the phrase take a flier

He took a flier in politics soon after getting his degree.

3

usually flyer : an advertising circular

Flyers announcing the concert were distributed throughout the city.

Synonyms of flier

• gamble
• chance
• venture
• throw

Examples of flier in a Sentence

These birds are graceful fliers.

They distributed flyers announcing the concert throughout the city.

Recent Examples on the Web

These hardside suitcases have earned stamps of approval from travel editors and frequent fliers for their longevity and ability to withstand rough handling—and prices start at $80. —Staff Author, Travel + Leisure, 5 Feb. 2026

Health-conscious fliers enjoyed 321,000 smoothies, 31,000 fresh juices and 32,000 acai bowls. —Alex Driggars, Austin American Statesman, 4 Feb. 2026

That is also when passengers should check bags, which fliers can typically do up to four hours before departure. —Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 2 Feb. 2026

Mosquitoes and many other pests are not strong fliers and can be kept away from porches with the addition of a strong fan. —Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 21 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing flier

• frequent-flier
• take a flier

Rhymes for flier

• briar
• brier
• buyer
• choir
• crier
• cryer
• drier
• dryer
• eyer
• flyer
• friar
• frier

Kids Definition

flier

noun

fli·​er

variants also flyer

ˈflī(-ə)r

1

: one that flies

especially : pilot entry 1 sense 3

2

: an undertaking (as in business) that involves much risk

3

: an advertising circular