dirigible

Definition

A self-propelled airship that can be steered.

Etymology

From French dirigeable, from ballon dirigeable (“steerable balloon”).

Example Sentences

• "On the opposite wall, the R101 tragedy is recalled by the airship's tattered ensign in a glass case, a plaque from the Royal Airship Works and a photograph of the dirigible at her moorings."
• "People had time to think up some questions, including reporters who shouted “Are you going to shoot down the balloon?” at President Biden shortly before the dirigible came down."