airy
|air/y|
🇺🇸
/ˈɛəri/
🇬🇧
/ˈeəri/
light and spacious
Etymology
'airy' originates from the noun 'air' with the adjectival suffix '-y'. The English noun 'air' came via Old French 'air' from Latin 'aēr', which ultimately comes from Greek 'aēr' meaning 'air'.
'airy' developed in Middle English (forms like 'airy', 'ayrie' or 'airey') from the noun 'air' + suffix '-y', and gradually became the modern adjective 'airy'.
Initially it meant 'of or relating to air' (i.e., having the qualities of air); over time the word broadened to include senses of 'light in weight or texture', 'spacious/ventilated', and figuratively 'insubstantial or frivolous'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
well ventilated or spacious; filled with or allowing plenty of fresh air.
The new apartment is bright and airy.
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Adjective 2
not serious or substantial; light in manner or content (often implying superficiality).
He made some airy promises that he never intended to keep.
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Adjective 3
light, delicate, or ethereal in quality (often used for sound, movement, or texture).
The flute produced an airy, ethereal melody.
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Adjective 4
relating to or characteristic of the air or atmosphere.
An airy layer of mist hovered over the fields.
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Last updated: 2025/09/20 09:09