Definition
A speed greater than the speed of sound. In aerodynamics, the speed of sound varies with air temperature and altitude, so supersonic flight is defined relative to local conditions rather than a fixed number in miles per hour or knots.
Plain English
Moving faster than sound travels through the air around you.
Context Anchor
Seen in high-speed flight, aircraft performance, and aerodynamic discussions, especially when describing speeds above the speed of sound.
Derivation
From Latin 'super' meaning 'above' or 'beyond,' and 'sonic' from 'sonus' meaning 'sound.' Literally, 'beyond sound' — beyond the speed at which sound travels.
Why Pilots Care
Recognizing supersonic flight helps anticipate shock wave formation and changes in aircraft handling.
Intuition Check
Supersonic does not just mean “extremely fast.” It specifically means faster than the speed of sound in the surrounding air.
Example Sentence 1
Once the aircraft passed the speed of sound, it was operating in supersonic flight.