takeoff
/ˈteɪkˌɔːf/
NOUN
1. The act of an aircraft or rocket becoming airborne
The moment or process when an aircraft or rocket leaves the ground and begins its flight.
1.1. Aircraft leaving the ground
The stage of a flight when an airplane or other aircraft rises from the runway and becomes airborne.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- landing
- touchdown
- arrival
- descent
Examples
- The takeoff was delayed because of heavy rain.
- Passengers must fasten their seat belts during takeoff and landing.
- The aircraft made a smooth takeoff despite the strong wind.
Related Words
- flight
- airborne
- runway
- aviation
- liftoff
1.2. Rocket or spacecraft launch
The launching of a rocket or spacecraft from the ground into the atmosphere or outer space.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- landing
- touchdown
- descent
Examples
- The rocket's takeoff was watched by millions of people.
- The spacecraft experienced a minor delay before takeoff.
Related Words
- spaceflight
- launching
- propulsion
- rocket launch
NOUN
2. A humorous imitation or parody
A humorous or exaggerated imitation of a person, style, work, or characteristic, usually intended to entertain or make fun of the original.
2.1. Comic imitation of a person or style
A humorous imitation that exaggerates someone's voice, behavior, appearance, or mannerisms.
Synonyms
- parody
- imitation
- mockery
- caricature
- send-up
- lampoon
Antonyms
- original
- authenticity
- faithful representation
- accurate portrayal
Examples
- The comedian's takeoff of the famous actor's voice had the audience laughing.
- Her performance was a clever takeoff on traditional television news presenters.
- The film is a humorous takeoff on classic detective stories.
Related Words
- satire
- burlesque
- impersonation
- mimicry
- spoof
NOUN
3. A rapid beginning of success or growth
A sudden or rapid start in which a business, career, product, or activity begins to achieve considerable success or popularity.
3.1. Rapid commercial or professional success
A period when a business, career, or project begins growing quickly and gaining success after a relatively slow or uncertain beginning.
Synonyms
- breakthrough
- upswing
- surge
- boom
- rapid growth
- rise
Antonyms
Examples
- The company's takeoff began after it introduced its new product.
- Her career experienced a remarkable takeoff following the award-winning performance.
Related Words
- success
- expansion
- momentum
- prosperity
- development
3.2. Sudden popularity or widespread adoption
A rapid increase in the popularity, acceptance, or use of a product, idea, trend, or activity.
Synonyms
- surge in popularity
- breakthrough
- boom
- rapid adoption
- rise in popularity
Antonyms
- loss of popularity
- decline
- rejection
- lack of acceptance
Examples
- The app's takeoff among young users surprised its developers.
- The takeoff of online shopping transformed the retail industry.
Related Words
- trend
- acceptance
- recognition
- market growth
- widespread use
NOUN
4. A point or place from which someone or something takes off
The designated location or surface from which a person, aircraft, or other object begins an upward jump or flight.
4.1. Starting point for a jump or flight
The physical position or area from which an athlete jumps or an aircraft begins its departure into the air.
Synonyms
- launch point
- starting point
- departure point
- jumping point
Examples
- The long jumper carefully measured the distance to the takeoff point.
- The aircraft waited at the designated takeoff area before entering the runway.
Related Words
- runway
- takeoff point
- launch site
- starting position
NOUN
5. A detailed calculation or measurement of required materials
A calculation or estimate of the quantities of materials needed for a construction or manufacturing project.
5.1. Estimating construction materials
A detailed measurement or calculation used to determine the amount of building materials required for a particular project.
Synonyms
- quantity survey
- material estimate
- bill of quantities
- materials calculation
Examples
- The contractor prepared a takeoff of the materials needed for the new building.
- The quantity surveyor completed the material takeoff before requesting supplier quotations.
Related Words
- estimation
- measurement
- quantity
- construction planning
- cost estimate
NOUN
6. The removal of printed sheets from a printing press
The process of removing printed sheets from a printing press or production equipment.
6.1. Removing sheets from a printing press
A printing-related operation involving the removal or collection of printed sheets from a press after they have been processed.
Synonyms
- sheet removal
- print removal
- sheet collection
Examples
- The operator checked the printed sheets during takeoff from the press.
- The takeoff process was adjusted to prevent damage to freshly printed sheets.
Related Words
- printing
- presswork
- printed sheets
- printing process