Parachute

Pronunciation

• IPA: /ˈpærəʃuːt/

Origin

Borrowing from fr {{2}} parachute, from para- ("protection against") (as in parasol) and chute ("fall").

Noun

1. (aviation) A device, generally constructed from fabric, that is designed to employ air resistance to control the fall of an object.
2. (zoology) A web or fold of skin extending between the legs of gliding mammals, such as the flying squirrel and colugo.
3. (BDSM) A small collar which fastens around the scrotum and from which weights can be hung.

Derived terms

• parachutist

Full definition of parachute

Verb

1. To jump, fall, descend, etc. using such a device.
• 2013-06-07, David Simpson, Fantasy of navigation, Like most human activities, ballooning has sponsored heroes and hucksters and a good deal in between. For every dedicated scientist patiently recording atmospheric pressure and wind speed while shivering at high altitudes, there is a carnival barker with a bevy of pretty girls willing to dangle from a basket or parachute down to earth.
2. To be placed in an organisation in a position of seniority without having previous experience there.

Related terms

• parapente
• parasail
• paratrooper