Английский Этимологический словарь - air (1)

- 12c., "atmospheric gasses," from O.Fr. air, from L. жrem (nom. жr), from Gk. aer (gen. жros) "air," in Homer, mostly "thick air, mist;" later "air" as one of the four elements. Replaced O.E. luft. Meaning "manner, appearance" is from 1596. The verb, "to expose to open air" is first recorded 1530. Airily is from 1766. Broadcasting sense (on the air) first recorded 1927. Air force is from 1917, with creation of the Royal Air Force; airmail is from 1913; airport first attested 1919; air-raid 1914. Airhead first recorded 1972.