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UFO - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A UFO, or unidentified flying object, is any aerial phenomenon that cannot be immediately explained. It is often associated with extraterrestrial spacecraft in popular culture.

UFO

/ˌjuː.ɛfˈoʊ/ /ˌjuː.ɛfˈəʊ/

Definition:

An unidentified flying object, often speculated to be of extraterrestrial origin.

Synonyms:

flying saucer, alien spacecraft, mystery aircraft

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

known aircraft, identified object

Common Collocations:

UFO sighting, UFO report, UFO conspiracy, UFO enthusiast

Derivatives:

ufologist, ufology

Usage Tips:

Use "UFO" when referring to unexplained aerial phenomena; avoid assuming extraterrestrial origin without evidence.

Common Phrases:

UFO sighting, close encounter of the third kind, flying saucer

Etymology:

Acronym from "unidentified flying object," first recorded in the 1950s during increased reports of strange aerial sightings.

Examples:

  • 1. The farmer saw a UFO hovering over his field last night.
  • 2. Many people claim to have photographed a UFO but lack proof.
  • 3. Scientists often debunk UFO sightings as natural phenomena or man-made objects.
  • 4. The movie features a UFO landing near a small town.

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