aviator
UK/'eivieitә/US
TOEFLC2
Definitions
n.
A person who flies an aircraft; a pilot (now somewhat old-fashioned or formal).
飞行员（如今略显旧式或正式）。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedaviat- (from aviation, bird-like flight) + -or (one who) = "one who flies." It predates the everyday word pilot and keeps a romantic, early-flight ring.
Root avi still carries 3 more wordsUsage Guide
Aviator now feels historical or formal — everyday English uses pilot. It survives strongly in aviator sunglasses (the teardrop-shaped lenses early flyers wore) and in nostalgic or literary writing about early flight.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Amelia Earhart was one of the most famous aviators in history.
- 2.
The museum honors the early aviators who risked their lives.
- 3.
He wore a leather jacket and classic aviator sunglasses.