Meaning & Definition of word "Missile"

Missile

/ˈmɪs.əl/

noun:

  • 1. A weapon that is designed to be sent in the direction of a target and that travels through the air either powered or guided.
    • Example: The military launched a missile to demonstrate its new capabilities.
  • 2. A self-propelled weapon, typically one that is guided towards a target.
    • Example: The country has developed a new long-range missile capable of reaching distant targets.
  • 3. An object propelled at high speed, typically to cause injury or damage.
    • Example: The protestors used rocks as missiles against the police barricade.

Etymology

Late Latin 'missilis', meaning 'throwable'

Common Phrases and Expressions

ballistic missile:

A missile with a high, arcing trajectory that is powered at launch and then follows a free-fall path to the target.

cruise missile:

A guided missile that flies at a constant speed along a relatively level flight path.

surface-to-air missile:

A missile designed to be launched from the ground to intercept and destroy air targets.

Related Words

rocketry:

The science and technology of designing and launching rockets.

warhead:

The explosive or destructive component of a missile.

launch pad:

A platform from which a missile or rocket is launched.

Slang Meanings of missile

Meaning: A term used to describe something that is fast or powerful.

Example Sentence: That new car is a total missile on the highway.