# aviator

/ˈeɪviˌeɪtɝ/ (US) · /ˈeɪvɪˌeɪtɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/aviator
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a person who flies an aircraft. It is an older word that people still use to sound more formal or romantic.

For teachers: a person who flies an aircraft, especially as a profession or a hobby. Often used in a formal or historical context to distinguish pilots from those who fly for commercial or military reasons.

## Examples

- The young aviator prepared for his first solo flight.
- The museum features a collection of vintage aircraft and the personal gear of a famous early aviator.
- While the term 'pilot' is now standard in modern aviation, the title of aviator still carries a certain romantic weight, often used to describe those who fly for adventure or personal challenge.

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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.