Ballistics

/bəˈlɪstɪks/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The effects of forces acting on a projectile, including gravity and air resistance.

Experts in ballistics can predict how a bullet will behave after being fired.

The science of the motion of projectiles in flight.

The study of ballistics is essential for developing more accurate firearms.

The characteristics of a projectile or the path it takes through the air.

The ballistics of the bullet were analyzed to determine its flight trajectory.

From Latin 'ballista', meaning a military engine for hurling stones.

ballistic missile

A missile that is launched like a rocket and follows a ballistic trajectory.

ballistic testing

Testing the performance of a projectile under controlled conditions.

forensic ballistics

The field of science that deals with the identification and use of firearms in legal proceedings.

projectile

An object that is propelled through the air.

trajectory

The path followed by a projectile.

dynamics

The branch of mechanics that deals with forces and their effects on motion.

Going ballistic

He went ballistic when he found out about the mistake.

Ballistic behavior

Her ballistic behavior during the meeting was unexpected.