Origin of "aeroplane"

The Raven wrote:
Whilst taking a 2minute break from some mind numbing work I pondered on the
origin of the word "aeroplane" and it's definition. Interesting word once
you get passed the now common "plane" equals aircraft.

Initially, aircraft were "flying machines" or "airships" but at some stage
the word "aeroplane" was arrived at.

"aero" is rather obvious, presumably "of the air". However, "plane" seems an
unusual choice of word. To "plane" the air? To fly along a "plane" of air? A
wing "planing" through air?

If "plane" is to "planing" then it would seem logical to assume this is in
reference to wings "planing the air"

Can anyone point to a defining point in time when the word came into use and
it's original definition/interpretation?

PS. Does a Fighter plane "plane fighters"? There, now it's on topic for the
group....... :-)

The Raven

"Plane" comes from the Greek word "planos" which means "wandering".

MfG

Geoff.

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