rocket science

American  

noun

1. rocketry.

2. something requiring great intelligence, especially mathematical ability.

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rocket science British  

noun

1. informal an activity requiring considerable intelligence and ability (esp in the phrase not exactly rocket science )

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Other Word Forms

• rocket scientist noun

Example Sentences

“Nutrition isn’t rocket science; it’s harder,” Ms. Belluz and Mr. Hall note in a chapter that questions the mania for supplements, which are taken by about 60% of American adults.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 5, 2025

At one of his early extradition hearings the sheriff commented that advancing the case shouldn't be "rocket science".

From BBC • May 21, 2025

The basic principle isn’t rocket science: Everything is easier when it’s on a schedule.

From Slate • May 5, 2025

The playoffs is not rocket science and hopefully more reasonable minds will make the necessary changes.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 4, 2025

His evidence was mounting and profound; this was something different, this device that captivated the human senses, and, in a way, recognition of the risks required neither science nor proverbial rocket science.

From "A Deadly Wandering: A Mystery, a Landmark Investigation, and the Astonishing Science of Attention in the Digital Age" by Matt Richtel