the structural framework and covering of an airplane, rocket, etc., not including the engine and its related parts
airframe in American English
(ˈɛərˌfreim)
noun
the framework and external covering of an airplane, rocket, etc
Word origin
[1930–35; air(plane) + frame]This word is first recorded in the period 1930–35. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: hypercorrection, kickback, logical positivism, preset, technical foul
Examples of 'airframe' in a sentence
airframe
The shuttle's aluminum-based airframe begins to melt at 350 degrees.
Houston Chronicle (2004)
Insurgent gunfire erupted, piercing the airframe and cutting off much of the communications gear.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
The airframe began to break up.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
Test flights seem to indicate that it causes few problems to the engines or airframe.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
We have been assessing options from airframe and engine manufacturers for several months and will announce the outcome shortly.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
All helicopters serving rigs now have a variety of sensors throughout the airframe, engines and rotors.
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
They are to be measured in terms of improved engine and airframe efficiency (and safety), leading to progressively lower fares.