trajectory
Americannoun
plural
trajectories-
the curve described by a projectile, rocket, or the like in its flight.
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Geometry. a curve or surface that cuts all the curves or surfaces of a given system at a constant angle.
noun
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the path described by an object moving in air or space under the influence of such forces as thrust, wind resistance, and gravity, esp the curved path of a projectile
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geometry a curve that cuts a family of curves or surfaces at a constant angle
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Physics The line or curve described by an object moving through space.
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Mathematics A curve or surface that passes through a given set of points or intersects a given series of curves or surfaces at a constant angle.
Usage
What does trajectory mean? The trajectory of an object is the path it follows once in flight or in motion.The word is especially used in the context of the path of projectiles like rockets, but it can be used in many different contexts.The trajectory of a golf ball is the curved path it follows in the air after being hit by a golf club. The trajectory of an asteroid is the path it follows in space. The potential trajectory of a storm is the route that it may travel.In geometry, trajectory is used in a more specific way to refer to a curve that intersects through a series of points at the same angle.Example: Try to determine the trajectory of the ball as it flies through the air so you can position yourself to catch it.
Other Word Forms
- trajectile adjective
- trajection noun
Etymology
Origin of trajectory
First recorded in 1660–70; from New Latin trājectōria, noun use of feminine of Medieval Latin trājectōrius “casting over”; equivalent to traject + -tory 1
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 any end to the conflict will depend on "decisions taken in foreign capitals" which will "play an important role in shaping the war's trajectory".
From Barron's
“We see no reason for Nvidia not to report a good quarter, at least maintaining the current trajectory of 50%+ growth,” he said.
From Barron's
Its subtitle, about awakening and survival, underlines Mrie’s trajectory from submissive daughter to political actor and skilled observer.
From Los Angeles Times
It called the advent of generative AI "an inflection point in the trajectory of technological evolution".
From Barron's
“We continue to hold a favorable view of Carvana’s growth trajectory and competitive position,” they write.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
