pilot
/ˈpaɪlət/ · piˈlɒt
noun
- A person who steers a ship, a helmsman. The captain relied on his experienced pilot to navigate the treacherous waters.
- A person who knows well the depths and currents of a harbor or coastal area, who is hired by a vessel to help navigate the harbor or coast. The pilot's knowledge of the local waters saved the ship from running aground.
- A guide book for maritime navigation. The pilot was a valuable resource for navigating the complex waterways of the city.
verb
- To control (an aircraft or watercraft). The pilot expertly guided the plane through the turbulence.
- To guide (a vessel) through coastal waters. The pilot helped the ship navigate the narrow channel.
- To test or have a preliminary trial of (an idea, a new product, etc.). The company piloted a new marketing strategy to gauge its effectiveness.
adjective
- Made or used as a test or demonstration of capability. The pilot plant showed the need for major process changes.
- Used to control or activate another device. The pilot light on the stove was faulty and needed to be replaced.
- Being a vehicle to warn other road users of the presence of an oversize vehicle/combination. The pilot vehicle led the procession through the city streets.
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Antonyms
Did you know? The word 'pilot' comes from the Greek word πλόος (plōos), meaning 'voyage' or 'steering', which is also the root of the word 'plow'.