collision
kuh-LIZH-un
/kəˈlɪʒ.ən/
An instance of one moving object or person striking violently against another.
Implies high-energy impact between moving bodies or between a moving body and a fixed obstruction.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'collisio', formed by joining 'com-' (together) with 'laedere' (to strike or injure). Originally used in classical literature to describe physical impacts or clashing interests, it became the standard aviation term for catastrophic contact between aircraft.
Word relationships
- impact: Impact highlights the force of striking, whereas collision emphasizes the event of two bodies striking each other.
- crash: Crash is broader and includes hitting the ground, whereas collision emphasizes hitting another specific body.
- avoidance: The act of steering clear to prevent contact.
Commonly confused with
- Collusion: Collusion is secret illegal cooperation, while collision is a physical violent crash between objects.
Word family
- collide (verb): To strike against each other with force.
Collocations
- mid-air collision
- collision avoidance
- prevent a collision
- risk of collision
Idioms & expressions
- on a collision course
Example sentences
- "Automated traffic collision avoidance systems alert pilots if another aircraft enters their safety zone." Air Traffic Safety
- "Ground radar was deployed across major airports to eliminate the threat of runway collisions between taxiing aircraft." Runway Safety
Memory hook
COLLIDE -> COLLISION. Crashing together.
When not to use
Do not use for gentle contact or soft touches.
Fun facts
- Modern TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) unit computers talk to each other directly without human pilot intervention to command opposing emergency dives and climbs.
Related words
Also appears in
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