Langimage
English

airtight

|air-tight|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈerˌtaɪt/

🇬🇧

/ˈeə.taɪt/

sealed, flawless

Etymology
Etymology Information

'airtight' originates from the combination of 'air' and 'tight', where 'air' refers to the invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth, and 'tight' means firmly or closely fixed in place.

Historical Evolution

'airtight' evolved from the Middle English word 'tite', meaning 'firmly', combined with 'air' to form the modern English word 'airtight'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'firmly closed to air', but over time it evolved to also mean 'unassailable or flawless'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Adjective 1

not allowing air to escape or pass through.

The container is airtight, ensuring the food stays fresh.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 2

having no weaknesses; unassailable.

The lawyer presented an airtight case in court.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45