Missile

Definition

Missile refers to a weapon or object that is forcibly propelled toward a target, either by hand or from a mechanical weapon.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪsəl/
• Respelling: MIS-uhl (with "MIS" as in "miss" and "uhl" as in "muzzle")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɪsaɪl/
• Respelling: MIS-ile (with "MIS" as in "miss" and "ile" as in "aisle")

In both dialects, "missile" places the primary stress on the first syllable. The pronunciation differs between American and British English, with "MIS-uhl" in American English and "MIS-ile" in British English.

Etymology

The term "missile" is derived from the Latin word "missilis", meaning "that may be thrown", which is the neuter form of "missilis". This in turn originates from the verb "mittere", meaning "to send".

Derivatives

• Missileer
• Missileman
• Missilery
• Missile-like
• Missilist

Synonyms

• Rocket
• Projectile
• Torpedo

Antonyms

• None

Usage

"Missile" is predominantly used in the context of military weaponry to describe objects that are designed to be thrown, fired, or launched at a target.

• The defense system intercepted the incoming missile before it could reach its target.
• The new missile technology can accurately hit targets from thousands of miles away.

Related Terms

• Ballistic
• ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile)
• SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile)
• Cruise missile
• Warhead

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Any Object Thrown as a Weapon: An object or weapon that is thrown or projected, usually with force, to hit a distant target.‍
• Example: The warrior hurled a missile at his enemy, hoping to strike him down.

• A Military Weapon System: A weapon that is self-propelled or thrown, especially one capable of carrying an explosive warhead, and used as a means of warfare.‍
• Example: The military base stored several types of missiles, ready for deployment in case of conflict.