English Reference

Word

spitfire

Phoneticsspit·fire

UK/spˈɪtfaɪə/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a very fast and powerful British fighter plane used in World War II. It is famous for its speed and for being a symbol of British courage.

n. a British single-seat fighter aircraft used by the Royal Air Force and other Allied countries during World War II. It is celebrated for its high speed and maneuverability, particularly during the Battle of Britain.

Examples

“The museum displays a restored Spitfire from the 1940s.”

“History enthusiasts often visit the airfield to see the original Spitfire engines still in working condition.”

“The Spitfire remains an enduring symbol of British resilience, representing the technological and strategic advancements that allowed the RAF to defend the home front during the darkest hours of the war.”

Examples

simple

“The museum displays a restored Spitfire from the 1940s.”

contextual

“History enthusiasts often visit the airfield to see the original Spitfire engines still in working condition.”

complex

“The Spitfire remains an enduring symbol of British resilience, representing the technological and strategic advancements that allowed the RAF to defend the home front during the darkest hours of the war.”

Real-World Examples

“Ford workers in Manchester manufactured 34,000 Rolls-Royce-designed Merlin engines, which powered Spitfires and Hurricane fighter planes.”
BBC News 22 Sept 2026

Word family

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C2 · Proficiency
Updated

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