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parachute

par·a·chute

parachute

 
pronunciation:
pae r shut
parts of speech:
noun, transitive verb, intransitive verb
features:
Word Combinations (noun, verb), Word History, Word Explorer, Word Parts
part of speech: noun
definition 1: a large device made of strong, thin cloth and attached cords in a conical arrangement, forming an umbrella that slows the descent of a person or heavy object, esp. one that has jumped or been dropped from an airplane.
 
definition 2: any similar device such as one used to slow the forward speed of an automobile or airplane.
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part of speech: transitive verb
inflections: parachutes, parachuting, parachuted
definition: to drop or deliver (soldiers, supplies, or the like) by parachute.
 
part of speech: intransitive verb
definition: to descend by using a parachute.
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derivations: parachuter (n.), parachutist (n.)
Word History
The word parachute combines a French word, chute, which means "fall," with the prefix, "para-," which means "defense against."
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  airplane
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