Pronunciation: [ɡlˈa͡ɪdəz] (IPA) 
The word "gliders" is spelled with two consonants, "g" and "l," followed by the vowel combination "i" and "d." The "i" in "gliders" is pronounced as a long "i" sound, represented in IPA phonetic transcription as /aɪ/. The "d" in "gliders" is pronounced as a voiced dental stop, represented in IPA as /d/. Together, the word is pronounced as "GLY-ders." Gliders are a type of aircraft that do not have an engine and glide through the air.
Gliders refer to a type of aircraft or recreational vehicle that is designed and built for unpowered flight. These aircraft are able to achieve sustained flight without the use of any engine or motor, relying entirely on aerodynamic forces such as the lift generated by their wings and the air currents. Gliders are usually lightweight, with a streamlined and sleek construction, allowing them to glide efficiently through the air and maximize flight duration.
Typically, gliders are launched into the air using other methods such as being towed behind a powered aircraft or being released from a high point such as a hill or a cliff. Once in the air, skilled pilots maneuver the gliders to catch rising air currents and thermals, which enable them to maintain and gain altitude, extending their flights.
Gliders come in various sizes and designs, ranging from single-seat gliders for individual pilots to larger models capable of carrying two or more passengers. They are commonly used for recreational purposes, soaring competitions, and training new pilots, as they provide an opportunity for individuals to experience the joy of flight and develop flying skills in a relatively affordable way.
With their silent flight and the freedom to explore the skies without relying on any fuel or engine power, gliders provide a unique and exhilarating form of aviation experience.
The word "gliders" is derived from the verb "glide" which dates back to the 14th century. "Glide" comes from the Middle English word "gliden", which in turn comes from the Old English word "glidan". The Old English word has its roots in the Proto-Germanic word "glīdaną" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*gleyd-", meaning to fly or move smoothly. Over time, "gliders" emerged as the plural form of "glider", referring to aircraft or objects capable of gliding through the air without an engine.
