helicoptering

1. 1
   noununcountable

   Transport of people or cargo by helicopter.

   Helicoptering proved essential for evacuating injured climbers from the ridge.

   Rising fuel costs have made helicoptering an expensive option for daily commuters.

   Similarairlift

2. 2
   verb

   Present participle and gerund of helicopter.

   Crews spent the morning helicoptering equipment to the summit camp.

   The army began helicoptering refugees across the border.

   Note

   A form that carries every sense of the verb, not only the travel ones. It takes an object when it means carrying something (helicoptering supplies in) and stands alone when it means flying (helicoptering between islands). It can also mean spinning like a rotor, or overprotecting one's children the way a helicopter parent does. Used as a gerund, it shades into the noun for helicopter transport.

   We spent the week helicoptering between the islands.

   Critics say constant helicoptering leaves children unable to solve their own problems.

Showing meanings only. Show all 2