Aeromodellists

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Those who specialize in creating and flying scaled models of aircraft, often as a pastime or sport
2. People dedicated to the design and operation of miniature aircraft replicas, frequently involving competitive events
3. Individuals who engage in the construction and piloting of miniature versions of flying machines, often participating in recreational or competitive activities

Etymology: "Aeromodellists" is the plural of "aeromodellist", a person who builds and flies model aircraft. The noun is formed from "aeromodelling", the hobby itself, with the "-ist" suffix that marks a person who practises an activity. The base word combines "aero-", from Greek "aēr" meaning air, with "model", which came into English from Italian "modello" and ultimately from Latin "modulus", a small measure. So the word literally describes someone who makes small measured copies of things that fly. The plural simply pluralises the agent noun, so it refers to a group of such hobbyists. Because the parts are transparent, the word needs little explanation beyond its components, and its meaning is essentially the sum of "air", "small copy" and "practitioner".

Synonyms: model airplane enthusiasts, RC modelers