# airmen

/ˈɛɹˌmɛn/ (US) · /ˈeəmɛn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/airmen
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

people who serve in an air force or work with military aircraft. It is the plural form of airman.

For teachers: personnel serving in a national air force or individuals involved in the operation of military aircraft. Plural form of 'airman'.

## Examples

- The airmen prepared the jets for takeoff.
- After the successful mission, the airmen returned to the base for a formal debriefing with their commanding officer.
- The memorial was dedicated to the airmen who lost their lives during the conflict, ensuring their contribution to aerial reconnaissance would not be forgotten by future generations.

## Usage notes

- Takes plural verb agreement. While historically masculine, it is often used as a collective term for all genders in military contexts, though 'aircrew' or 'personnel' are more neutral alternatives.

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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.