Rocket
ˈrɒkɪt
Definitions
2 meaningsA self-propelled missile or a firework that goes up in the air.
ˈrɒkɪt
A cylindrical projectile propelled by the ejection of burning gases.
The rocket soared through the atmosphere.
💡 Simply: Imagine a big, fast tube that shoots into the sky with a lot of fire and smoke! That's a rocket. They can take people and things to space, or be used for fireworks!
👶 For kids: A rocket is like a tube that shoots up into the sky with fire and smoke.
More Examples
The engineers are working on designing a new rocket.
We watched the rocket's fiery ascent into the night sky during the fireworks display.
How It's Used
"The rocket launched into space, carrying astronauts and satellites."
"The military used rockets for targeted strikes."
"Fireworks displays often include rockets."
To move or increase very quickly.
ˈrɒkɪt
To move or rise rapidly or dramatically.
The sales figures rocketed after the advertising campaign.
💡 Simply: If something *rockets*, it's like it suddenly zooms upwards or increases super quickly, just like a real rocket blasting off into space. Imagine a balloon suddenly flying up because you let go of it!
👶 For kids: If something rockets, it goes up really, really fast!
More Examples
Her popularity rocketed after her performance in the show.
The price of oil rocketed due to the political instability.
How It's Used
"The company's profits rocketed after the new product launch."
"The stock price rocketed during the trading day."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
rocket science
A complex or difficult activity.
"Building a website is not rocket science, but it takes some effort."
From Italian *rocchetto* (a spindle), later influenced by French *roquette* (a firework). The association with fireworks led to its application to self-propelled projectiles.
The term 'rocket' and its variations have appeared in texts dating back to the 17th century, initially referring to fireworks and gradually evolving to encompass various types of missiles and spacecraft.
Memory tip
Think of the shape and the fiery trail to remember what a rocket is.
Word Origin
"spindle (rocchetto)"