Dirigible

/dɪˈrɪdʒəbəl/ adjective, noun

Definition

An airship that can be steered and controlled (adjective); or a powered airship like a blimp or zeppelin (noun).

Etymology

From Latin 'dirigere' (to direct) plus -ible (capable of being), literally meaning 'capable of being directed.' This technical term became famous with early aviation.

Kelly Says

Dirigibles were called that because they were revolutionary—regular hot air balloons just drifted, but these had engines and could be actually steered, so the word itself celebrates that innovation.

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