Projectile
/prəˈdʒɛktəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsAn object that is propelled or thrown forward, especially through the air.
/prəˈdʒɛktəl/
An object thrown or propelled forward.
The archer released the arrow, sending the projectile toward the target.
💡 Simply: Imagine you throw a ball really far. That ball is a projectile! It's anything you launch through the air.
👶 For kids: Something you throw, like a ball or a rock!
More Examples
The explosion sent metal projectiles flying through the air.
Scientists study the motion of projectiles to understand how objects move under gravity.
How It's Used
"The cannon fired a heavy projectile that destroyed the enemy fort."
"The trajectory of a projectile is determined by its initial velocity and the force of gravity."
"The quarterback launched the projectile (the football) downfield."
Relating to something that can be propelled or projected.
/prəˈdʒɛktəl/
Capable of being projected.
The experimental aircraft was designed with projectile launch capabilities.
💡 Simply: Something that can be shot or launched, like a video image from a projector.
👶 For kids: Something that can be thrown or sent far.
More Examples
The technology enabled a projectile display of the data
They worked on creating projectile weapons
How It's Used
"The company developed a projectile display system."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
From Latin *proiectum*, past participle of *proicere* 'to throw forward,' from *pro-* 'forward' + *iacere* 'to throw'.
The word *projectile* has been used in English since the 17th century, initially in the context of ballistics and military science.
Memory tip
Think of a *pro*-ject *ile*, something that's thrown *forward*.
Word Origin
"thrown forward"