# air force

CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/air-force
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

the part of a country's military that fights in the air using planes and helicopters.

For teachers: the branch of a nation's military forces primarily responsible for aerial warfare and air defence. Typically functions as a collective noun.

## Examples

- He joined the air force to become a pilot.
- The nation's air force was called in to provide emergency supplies to the flooded regions after the roads became impassable.
- Modern strategic doctrine often emphasizes the necessity of maintaining air force superiority to protect ground operations and ensure the integrity of national borders during conflicts.

## Usage notes

- Often capitalized as 'Air Force' when referring to a specific national organization (e.g., the Royal Air Force).

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.