launch pad
Americannoun
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the platform on which a missile or launch vehicle undergoes final prelaunch checkout and countdown and from which it is launched from the surface of the earth.
-
something that serves to launch or initiate.
He used his legal experience as a launch pad for his career in politics.
noun
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a platform from which a spacecraft, rocket, etc, is launched
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an effective starting point for a career, enterprise, or campaign
Etymology
Origin of launch pad
First recorded in 1955–60
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But the biggest setback was on 28 May 2026, when Blue Origin's only launch pad at Cape Canaveral was seriously damaged after a rocket exploded during an engine test.
From BBC ● Oct. 27, 2026
Once those preparations are complete, Falcon Heavy and Roman will be transported to the launch pad for the final steps before liftoff.
From Science Daily ● Aug. 24, 2026
He’s said that parts of the launch site are “in good shape” and that Blue Origin won’t rebuild the same launch pad.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 8, 2026
The rocket-propelled launch vehicle will not take off from a launch pad.
From Barron's ● Jun. 30, 2026
In reality it lifted just three feet off the launch pad before it burst into flames.
From "Reaching for the Moon" by Katherine Johnson
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
