# Lockheed

/ˈɫɑkˌhid/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lockheed
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a large American company that builds planes, space technology, and weapons for the military. It is famous for making some of the fastest and most advanced aircraft in history.

For teachers: a major American aerospace, arms, and defense corporation. When used in general discourse, it typically refers to the entity formed by the 1995 merger with Martin Marietta, known as Lockheed Martin.

## Examples

- The air force bought new jets from Lockheed.
- Engineers at Lockheed developed the U-2 spy plane during the Cold War to fly at extremely high altitudes.
- The historical significance of Lockheed in the aerospace sector is cemented by its Skunk Works division, which produced revolutionary designs like the SR-71 Blackbird under conditions of extreme secrecy.

## Usage notes

- Usually functions as a proper noun referring to the corporation; can be used as a modifier in noun phrases like 'Lockheed engineers'.

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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.