A small, light, usually single-seated aeroplane of great speed and climbing power, used in repelling hostile aircraft. Also attributive.

an aircraft that engages in or is designed for aerial combat; the pilot of such an aircraft.

Aeronautics. A high-speed military aircraft designed for aerial combat.

In the war of 1914–18, a fast type of aeroplane. colloquial.

Military (originally and chiefly U.S.). A pursuit plane; (also) the pilot of such a plane. Now historical.

(a) a fighter aircraft used or designed for use at night; (b) the pilot of such an aircraft.

A military aircraft which engages in dogfighting (dogfighting, n. 2).

= parasite fighter n.