Hangar

Part of Speech: Noun

Pronunciation: /ˈhæŋɡɑːr/

Definitions

• (Noun) A large building or structure used for housing and maintaining aircraft or other vehicles. Example: "The plane was stored in the hangar overnight for maintenance."
• (Noun) A covered area or shed used for storage, especially for large machinery or equipment. Example: "They stored the construction materials in the hangar."

Usage Examples

• "The jet was moved into the hangar after its flight."
• "The hangar at the airport is being expanded to accommodate more aircraft."
• "They waited for the storm to pass inside the hangar."

Etymology

The word "hangar" comes from the French word "hangar," which originally meant "shelter" or "shed." It was derived from the Old French word "hangier," which referred to a building for storing grain, and it is related to the word "hanging" in the sense of something being suspended. The term evolved to refer specifically to a building used for housing aircraft during the early 20th century as aviation became more widespread. The modern usage of "hangar" is largely associated with airports and aviation-related facilities.

Synonyms

• Shed
• Warehouse
• Storage building
• Aircraft shelter
• Depot

Antonyms

• Open field
• Outdoor area
• Exposed area
• Open-air

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, "hangar" is pronounced as /ˈhæŋɡɑːr/.
• In British English, it may also be pronounced as /ˈhæŋɡə/ or /ˈhæŋɡɑː/.
• In French, the word is pronounced /ɑ̃ɡaʁ/ with a nasal sound in the first syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "hangar" first emerged in France in the 18th century, referring to a shed or shelter, particularly for grain storage. By the early 20th century, the term began to be specifically associated with buildings used for the housing and maintenance of aircraft. The widespread use of the term coincided with the rapid development of aviation, especially during and after World War I. As airplanes became more common, hangars were built at airports to protect the aircraft from the elements and for maintenance purposes. Today, the term is most commonly associated with aviation and is used globally in both commercial and military contexts.

Cultural Nuances

In the context of aviation, the hangar serves a crucial role not only in protecting aircraft but also in fostering the technical and professional aspects of air travel. Hangars are where routine maintenance, repair work, and sometimes major overhauls of aircraft are performed. In some countries, hangars are also used as venues for air shows, exhibitions, and public events. Beyond aviation, the concept of a hangar has expanded into other industries, where large storage buildings are referred to as hangars, such as those used for housing ships or military vehicles.

More Information

The word "hangar" has evolved significantly from its early use in French and its association with grain storage to its modern-day meaning, tied to the burgeoning aviation industry. As aviation technology advanced, so did the design and function of hangars, which became sophisticated, large-scale structures essential for the safe storage, repair, and maintenance of aircraft. Today, hangars are integral parts of airports, military bases, and aviation facilities worldwide, continuing to serve a vital role in air travel and defense. As aviation has grown, so too has the global recognition and importance of hangars as part of the infrastructure that supports both commercial and military aviation.