FIGHTER KITE Meaning and
Definition
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A fighter kite is a type of kite designed and crafted specifically for the purpose of engaging in aerial combat. This traditional kite form originated in several regions around the world, including the Indian subcontinent, East Asia, and Southeast Asia.
A fighter kite typically features a diamond-shaped design made from lightweight materials such as paper or fabric, with a frame constructed from bamboo or other flexible materials. The kite's main characteristic is its exceptional maneuverability and agility in the air, allowing it to engage in exciting duels with other kites.
The fighting aspect of these kites involves attaching a line made of string or specialized cutting material, such as glass-coated or abrasive-coated twine, to the kite. The objective is to cut the opponent's line and subsequently bring down their kite. This is achieved by skillfully maneuvering one's own kite and precisely flying it into the path of the opponent's kite string. The flyer may engage in tactics such as swift turns, loops, dives, and sudden direction changes to outmaneuver their adversary.
Fighter kites often hold a significant cultural and historical value in the regions where they originated, representing skill, competition, and the art of kite flying. The practice of flying fighter kites can also bring communities together in the form of kite festivals or competitions. In recent years, fighter kites have gained popularity globally, with enthusiasts and kite-flyers appreciating the thrill and artistry involved in this unique airborne combat sport.
Etymology of FIGHTER KITE
The word "fighter" in "fighter kite" comes from the verb "fight", which originated from the Old English word "feohtan". "Feohtan" meant to combat or engage in battle. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any form of physical struggle or contest. The term "kite" in "fighter kite" refers to the flying object, which resembles a kite bird in flight. The word "kite" itself has a different, unrelated etymology originating from the Old English word "cȳta" and the Middle High German word "küt(e)" which meant "type of bird".
