# Lincoln

/ˈɫɪŋkən/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lincoln
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

a code word used in aviation to represent the letter L. Pilots and air traffic controllers use it to make sure they are understood clearly over the radio.

For teachers: a phonetic code word representing the letter L, specifically within the United States military and early aviation phonetic alphabets. While largely superseded by 'Lima' in the modern ICAO standard, it remains a recognized historical and regional variant in radio communication.

## Examples

- The pilot identified the aircraft as Lincoln-Alpha-Niner.
- Before the international adoption of the NATO phonetic alphabet, American pilots frequently used Lincoln to clarify tail numbers during radio transmissions.
- Historical transcripts from mid-century air traffic control towers reveal a transition period where Lincoln was gradually phased out in favor of the now-standardized Lima to ensure global interoperability.

## Usage notes

- Used as a proper noun in the context of spelling out identifiers; typically capitalized in written logs.

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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.