missile

Noun
Synonyms: projectile

WordNet 3.0

Noun (2)

  1. a rocket carrying a warhead of conventional or nuclear explosives; may be ballistic or directed by remote control
  2. a weapon that is forcibly thrown or projected at a targets but is not self-propelledSynonyms: projectile
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Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

Missile \Mis"sile\, a. [L. missils, fr. mittere, missum, to cause to go, to send, to throw; cf. Lith. mesti to throw: cf. F. missile. Cf. Admit, Dismiss, Mass the religious service, Message, Mission.] Capable of being thrown; adapted for hurling or to be projected from the hand, or from any instrument or engine[2], so as to strike an object at a distance. [1913 Webster]

We bend the bow, or wing the missile dart. --Pope. [1913 Webster]

Missile \Mis"sile\, n. [L. missile.]

1.A weapon thrown or projected or intended to be projected, as a lance, an arrow, or a bullet. [1913 Webster]

2.A rocket-propelled device designed to fly through the air and deliver a warhead of explosive materials to a target. [PJC]

Note: Numerous types of rocket-propelled missile[2] are now used in modern warfare. Some types with names indicating their range or function are: antiaircraft missile; ballistic missile; cruise missile; antiballistic missile missile; air-to-air missile; air-to-ground missile; guided missile; intercontinental ballistic missile (IBM); intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM); surface-to-air missile.

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