par·a·chute
parachute
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- 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.
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definition 2: |
any similar device such as one used to slow the forward speed of an automobile or airplane.
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related words: |
canopy |
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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.
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part of speech: |
intransitive verb |
definition: |
to descend by using a parachute.
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derivations: |
parachuter (n.), parachutist (n.) |
The word
parachute combines a French word,
chute, which means "fall," with the prefix, "para-," which means "defense against."