ballistics

[ buh-lis-tiks ]

noun

, (usually used with a singular verb)

1. the science or study of the motion of projectiles, as bullets, shells, or bombs.
2. the art or science of designing projectiles for maximum flight performance.

ballistics

/ bəˈlɪstɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the study of the flight dynamics of projectiles, either through the interaction of the forces of propulsion, the aerodynamics of the projectile, atmospheric resistance, and gravity ( exterior ballistics ), or through these forces along with the means of propulsion, and the design of the propelling weapon and projectile ( interior ballistics )

ballistics

/ bə-lĭs′tĭks /

1. The scientific study of the characteristics of projectiles, such as bullets or missiles, and the way they move in flight.

Other Words From

• bal·lis·ti·cian [bal-, uh, -, stish, -, uh, n], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ballistics¹

First recorded in 1745–55; ballistic, -ics

Example Sentences

He admitted in court that he was not a pathologist, and that he did not have any formal training in ballistics or sound.

From The Daily Beast

As he puts it in terms that could apply to ballistics, he is “plotting an arc of motions that plotted me.”

From The Daily Beast

But DiMaio, with his ballistics and forensic credentials, may have been more persuasive.

From The Daily Beast

To be sure, there are professorships, and ballistics experts in the Navy, but these aren't actually all that well paid.

From The Daily Beast

He was tied to the cases through ballistics and DNA evidence.

From The Daily Beast

Ballistics tests proved that it was Jeff's gun which had killed both Biggert and Carlson.

From Project Gutenberg

Another interesting and profitable province of the cinematograph is that concerning ballistics.

From Project Gutenberg

Have you ever had any formal training in ballistics or in exit wounds or entrance wounds—bullet wounds?

From Project Gutenberg

Well, I am not an expert on ballistics, but one cannot escape certain ballistic implications in this business.

From Project Gutenberg

Investigating the wound ballistics of various bullets and other military missiles.

From Project Gutenberg