# wingspan

/ˈwɪŋˌspæn/ (US) · /wˈɪŋspæn/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wingspan
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the distance from one wing to the other when a bird or an airplane has its wings fully spread out.

For teachers: the distance between the tips of the two wings of a bird, insect, or aircraft when fully extended.

## Examples

- The eagle has a wingspan of over two meters.
- Engineers had to calculate the wingspan to ensure the aircraft could fit safely within the hangar doors.
- The fossilized remains of the ancient pterosaur suggest it possessed an impressive wingspan, potentially rivaling that of modern-day albatrosses in terms of aerodynamic efficiency.

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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.