airstair

noun

air·​stair ˈer-ˌster How to pronounce airstair (audio)
plural airstairs
: a built-in or movable set of stairs that is used to allow people to enter and exit an aircraft
often plural
The plate acted like a gate latch, preventing the airstairs from being lowered in flight.Steve Martini, The Rule of Nine, 2010

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of airstair was in 1960

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near airstair

Cite this Entry

“Airstair.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/airstair. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!