Blimp

/blɪmp/ noun

Definition

A large aircraft filled with gas that is lighter than air, used for observation or advertising purposes.

Etymology

Coined in 1915, possibly from 'limp' (non-rigid airship) combined with a B-class designation, though the exact origin is debated; the word caught on during World War I.

Kelly Says

The Goodyear blimp you see at sports events is basically a giant flying billboard powered by the same principle that makes helium balloons float—it's lighter than the air around it.

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