parachute

Definition

A parachute is a device that slows down the fall of an object through the air. It is made of a large piece of fabric that is attached to a harness that the person wears. When the parachute is open, the fabric catches the air and creates drag, which slows down the fall.

Parachutes are used to help people and objects land safely from high places. They are often used by skydivers, paratroopers, and astronauts. They can also be used to help people escape from burning buildings or sinking ships.

How can the word be used?

The straps that hold a person or object in place during a parachute descent.

Different forms of the word

Noun:

parachute (an apparatus consisting of a large canopy of cloth attached to a harness, used to slow the descent of a person or object from a great height)
parachutist (a person who uses a parachute)

Verb:

to descend by parachute
to equip with a parachute

Etymology

The word "parachute" is derived from the French word "parachute", which is a combination of the words "para" (against) and "chute" (fall). The first recorded use of the word "parachute" was in the 1780s.

Question

How does a parachute work?