air

Universal Words noun, verb noun gas 1 [U] the mixture of gases that surrounds the earth and that we breathe: air pollution * Let's go out for some fresh air. * I need to put some air in my tyres. * currents of warm air * whales coming up for air (= in order to breathe) * The act lays down a minimum standard for air quality. space 2 [U] (usually the air) the space above the ground or that is around things: I kicked the ball high in / into the air. * Spicy smells wafted through the air. * Music filled the night air. for planes 3 [U] the space above the earth where planes fly: It only takes three hours by air (= in a plane). * air travel / traffic / fares * The temple was clearly visible from the air. * A surprise air attack (= from aircraft) was launched at night. impression 4 [sing.] the particular feeling or impression that is given by sb/sth; the way sb does sth: The room had an air of luxury. * She looked at him with a defiant air. * There was an air of complete confidence about her. tune 5 [C] (old-fashioned) (often used in the title of a piece of music) a tune: Bach's Air on a G string behaviour 6 (airs) [pl.] (disapproving) a way of behaving that shows that sb thinks that they are more important, educated, etc. than they really are: I hate the way she puts on airs. IDIOMS airs and graces (BrE, disapproving) a way of behaving that shows that sb thinks that they are more important, educated, etc. than they really are SYNAIRS: Even when he became a star he didn't have any airs and graces. float / walk on air to feel very happy: Most couples feel they are walking on air on their wedding day. in the air felt by a number of people to exist or to be happening: There's romance in the air. on / off (the) air broadcasting or not broadcasting on television or radio: We will be back on air tomorrow morning at 7. * The programme was taken off the air over the summer. up in the air not yet decided: Our travel plans are still up in the air. moreatBREATH, CASTLE, CLEARv., NOSEn., PLUCKv., THINadj. verb clothes 1 (especially BrE) to put clothing, etc. in a place that is warm or has plenty of air so that it dries completely and smells fresh; to be left to dry somewhere: [VN] Air the sheets well. * [V] Leave the towels out to air. a room 2 (BrE) (AmE air )sth( out) to allow fresh air into a room or a building; to be filled with fresh air: [VN] The rooms had all been cleaned and freshly aired. * Leave the window open to air the room. [also V] opinions 3 [VN] to express your opinions publicly: The weekly meeting enables employees to air their grievances. radio / tv programme 4 (especially AmE) to broadcast a programme on the radio or on television; to be broadcast: [VN] The show will be aired next Tuesday night. * [V] The program aired last week. PHRASALVERBS air out