1. In Navigation:
* The first sighting of land from a ship or aircraft after a long voyage or flight. This is the most common usage.
* The moment when a vessel or aircraft reaches land after a journey.
2. In Meteorology:
* The point where a hurricane or other tropical storm first makes contact with land. This is often used in weather reports and forecasting.
3. In Archaeology and History:
* The first time a group of people settled in a particular area. This is less common but can be used to describe the arrival of early settlers or explorers in a new land.
To understand the meaning of "landfall" correctly, consider the context in which it is used.