pilot

A person who controls and flies a plane or other aircraft.

• The pilot landed safely.
• My sister wants to be a pilot.
• Both pilots checked the aircraft before takeoff.

Similar words: aviator

Common phrases: airline pilot, helicopter pilot, pilot training

A first small test of something before it is used or produced more widely.

• The pilot was a success.
• They filmed a pilot for a new comedy series.
• We ran a pilot in two schools before expanding the program.

Similar words: trial, test

Common phrases: run a pilot, television pilot, successful pilot

A person who guides ships through a harbor or coastal waters they know well.

• The pilot guided the ship into port.
• A local pilot boarded before we entered the harbor.
• Pilots know where the shallow water lies.

Common phrases: harbor pilot, ship’s pilot, local pilot

Used as a small first test before something is developed or used more widely.

• The pilot project starts tomorrow.
• A pilot study helped us improve the questions.
• Ten shops took part in the pilot program.

Similar words: experimental, trial

Common phrases: pilot project, pilot study, pilot program

Used to start, control, or operate another device.

• The pilot light went out.
• A pilot valve controls the main valve.
• Check the pilot burner before starting the heater.

Common phrases: pilot light, pilot valve, pilot burner

To control a plane or other aircraft while it flies.

• She can pilot a helicopter.
• He piloted the plane through thick clouds.
• Who will pilot the aircraft on the return flight?

Similar words: fly

Common phrases: pilot a plane, pilot a helicopter, pilot an aircraft