puddle-jumper

Noun

puddle jumper (plural puddle jumpers)

1. (idiomatic) A small passenger airplane, typically used for shorter connecting trips to smaller airports.
   • The flight across country was not bad, but the ride in the puddle jumper between Boston and Connecticut was a little rough.

   Synonyms:

   puddle hopper

2. A wearable personal flotation device similar to a life vest especially worn by infants or small children in swimming pools.