ballistic missile

noun

plural ballistic missiles
: a usually rocket-powered missile that is launched in a high arc under guidance for its ascent but that is unpowered and unguided once it begins its descent compare cruise missile, guided missile

Examples of ballistic missile in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Among the weapons systems reportedly featured were Russia’s Yars intercontinental ballistic missile system and hypersonic missiles such as the Kinzhal and Zircon. Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026 An Iranian ballistic missile passed overhead. Michael Kaplan, CBS News, 19 May 2026 Iran’s proxies in Iraq also possess advanced arsenals, including ballistic missiles and anti-aircraft weapons. Shane Harris, The Atlantic, 19 May 2026 Putin’s military parade this month was stripped of its usual ballistic missiles and tank columns, laying bare just how much of Russia’s hardware remains tied up in Ukraine. Mithil Aggarwal, NBC news, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ballistic missile

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ballistic missile was in 1950

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Cite this Entry

“Ballistic missile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ballistic%20missile. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

ballistic missile

noun
: a missile that moves under its own power, is guided as it rises in a steeply curving path, and falls freely on the way back to earth

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