# lightning carrier

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. A small light fast aircraft carrier specialized in operating VTOL aircraft, used for controlling sea lanes, convoy escort, and, anti-submarine patrol (ASW)

## Etymology
Blend of lightning + aircraft carrier. From the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II, the Lightning II jump jet, itself named after WWII Lockheed P-38 Lightning I, in turn, named after the lightning bolt and lightning.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/lightning-carrier