unidentified flying object

Definition

Anything not readily explainable appearing to move through or be suspended in the air.

Etymology

The phrase is usually attributed to US Air Force officer Edward J. Ruppelt (1923–1960) who coined it as a replacement of the terms flying saucer and flying disk.

Example Sentences

• "The lights seen over the city last night, originally termed unidentified flying objects, turned out to be spotlights from a car dealership reflecting on low clouds."
• "She said that the unidentified flying object then turned around, zoomed to a higher altitude, and loitered briefly before speeding off."
• "The U.S. and Canada are investigating three unidentified flying objects shot down over North America in the past three days. Militaries have adjusted radars to try to spot more incursions."