Definition
The phase of the takeoff roll in which the pilot smoothly applies back-elevator pressure at the appropriate airspeed to raise the nose to the takeoff pitch attitude (rotation), causing the wings to produce lift greater than the airplane's weight so that it leaves the runway and becomes airborne (lift-off).
Plain English
When the airplane has rolled fast enough down the runway, the pilot eases back on the controls to lift the nose. Once the nose is up at the right angle, the wings start lifting the airplane off the runway and into the air.
Context Anchor
Seen during takeoff training, especially when learning when to raise the nose and how to let the airplane leave the runway smoothly.
Derivation
Rotation comes from the Latin rotare, 'to turn.' During this maneuver the airplane turns about its lateral (wingtip-to-wingtip) axis, pivoting nose-up around the main wheels. Lift-off is plain English: the moment the wheels leave the surface.
Why Pilots Care
Improper rotation speed or technique can cause a stall, runway overrun, or loss of directional control.
Grounding Statement
Picture the airplane rolling fast on the runway, the pilot smoothly easing the nose up, and the wheels lifting free as the wings begin carrying the airplane.
Intuition Check
Do not read rotation as a turn across the ground. Here, rotation means raising the nose during takeoff; lift-off means the airplane actually leaves the runway.
Example Sentence 1
At the recommended airspeed, the student applied smooth back pressure for rotation and lift-off, and the airplane left the runway in a positive climb.
Example Sentence 2
A delayed rotation caused the airplane to use more runway than planned before lift-off.