projectile

[pruh-jek-til, -tahyl]

noun

1. an object fired from a gun with an explosive propelling charge, such as a bullet, shell, rocket, or grenade.

2. a body projected or impelled forward, as through the air.

adjective

1. impelling or driving forward, as a force.

2. caused by impulse, as motion.

3. capable of being impelled forward, as a missile.

4. Zoology.,  protrusile, as the jaws of a fish.

projectile

/ prəˈdʒɛktaɪl /

noun

1. an object or body thrown forwards

2. any self-propelling missile, esp one powered by a rocket or the rocket itself

3. any object that can be fired from a gun, such as a bullet or shell

adjective

1. capable of being or designed to be hurled forwards

2. projecting or thrusting forwards

3. zoology another word for protrusile

Word History and Origins

Origin of projectile¹

1655–65; < New Latin, neuter of prōjectilis (adj.) projecting. See project, -ile

Word History and Origins

Origin of projectile¹

C17: from New Latin prōjectilis jutting forwards

Example Sentences

There is not yet much coming with “Something Coming,” but his agile voice is a clean, clear tenor projectile expandable into operatic fortissimos and toned down into sweet, soft Broadway-esque whispers.

From Los Angeles Times

The use of so-called less-lethal projectile launchers and other weapons designed to subdue rather than kill has come under renewed scrutiny after police turned to them often during recent protests against federal immigration enforcement.

From Los Angeles Times

Blair said the police-fired projectiles ended up “hitting students and faculty, leaving them bruised and with burning eyes.”

From Los Angeles Times

It's not the first time Russian projectiles have landed in Poland, but previous episodes were close to the border and seemingly accidental.

From BBC

The site has been raided at least four times; the last time agents used non-lethal projectiles and tear gas, advocates said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• arrow 
• bullet 
• dart 
• missile 
• rocket 
• torpedo