touchdown
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the exact moment when an aircraft or spacecraft touches the ground during landing.
the moment at which an aircraft or spacecraft makes initial contact with the landing surface.
Simple“The passengers cheered at the moment of touchdown after the long flight.”
In context“Mission control confirmed a successful touchdown on the lunar surface at exactly 04:00 UTC, following a complex descent sequence.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun to describe the event generally.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a way of scoring six points in American football by carrying the ball into the end of the field.
a scoring play in American or Canadian football worth six points, achieved by advancing the ball into the opponent's end zone.
Simple“The star player scored a touchdown in the final minute to win the game.”
In context“The quarterback's precision pass allowed the wide receiver to secure a touchdown, effectively sealing the championship victory for the home team.”
UsageCommonly used with the verb 'score'.
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
the moment a tornado touches the ground.
the point at which a funnel cloud makes physical contact with the earth's surface.
Simple“The news reported a tornado touchdown just outside the small town.”
In context“Meteorologists tracked the storm's path, noting the exact coordinates of touchdown where the most significant structural damage occurred.”
UsageTypically used in meteorological reports or news coverage of storms.
Synonyms
From touch + down.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.