guided missile

American  

noun

1. an aerial missile, as a rocket, steered during its flight by radio signals, clockwork controls, etc.

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guided missile British  

noun

1. a missile, esp one that is rocket-propelled, having a flight path controlled during flight either by radio signals or by internal preset or self-actuating homing devices See also command guidance field guidance homing guidance inertial guidance terrestrial guidance

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Etymology

Origin of guided missile

First recorded in 1940–45

Related Words

• ballistic missile