DictionarybankTilting turn
noun / verb

bank

A sideways tilt of an aircraft or vehicle while turning.

The plane banks as it turns toward the runway.

Etymology

The banking sense is associated with a raised or sloping bank, as on a curve. It extends the image of an inclined surface to a vehicle tilting sideways during a turn.

More examples

  • The pilot brings the plane out of a steep bank.
  • The motorcycle banks to the left around the curve.
  • Banking the aircraft helps the pilot make a smooth turn.

Forms

bank · banks · banked · banking

Similar words

tilt
Tilt describes any slant, not necessarily one during turning.
lean
Lean emphasizes an inclined position rather than a turning maneuver.