gyroplane
/ˈdʒaɪroʊˌpleɪn/
noun
- A type of aircraft that uses an unpowered rotor (like a helicopter's blades) that spins freely to provide lift, and a separate engine-driven propeller for forward motion.
- The gyroplane lifted off the runway with its rotor spinning freely in the wind.
- Unlike a helicopter, a gyroplane cannot hover in place for long periods.
- Many pilots enjoy flying gyroplanes because they are stable and easy to control.
Synonyms