rocket
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for rocket, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A vehicle or projectile driven by expelling burning gas, used to launch spacecraft, missiles, or fireworks.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use rocket
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Italian rocchetta, "little spindle," because early rockets resembled a bobbin of thread.
Full origin of rocket →Frequently asked questions
What does “rocket” mean?
The word “rocket” means a vehicle or projectile driven by expelling burning gas, used to launch spacecraft, missiles, or fireworks. In plain terms, a projectile or engine that launches by burning fuel, or (informally) to shoot upward fast; also a leafy salad green in British English.
How do you pronounce “rocket”?
“Rocket” is pronounced ROK-iht (/ˈɹɑk.ɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “rocket” in a sentence?
Here is “rocket” used in a sentence: “The rocket lifted off the launch pad in a cloud of smoke.”
What part of speech is “rocket”?
Depending on how it is used, “rocket” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “rocket” come from?
The word “rocket” comes from Italian. From Italian rocchetta, "little spindle," because early rockets resembled a bobbin of thread.
Is “rocket” a common word?
“Rocket” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “rocket” have?
“Rocket” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a vehicle or projectile driven by expelling burning gas, used to launch spacecraft, missiles, or fireworks.
What is the difference between a rocket and a missile?
A rocket is a vehicle or projectile driven forward by expelling burning gas, and it may be unguided. A missile is a weapon designed to strike a target and is usually guided, though it is often rocket-powered.
What is the difference between a rocket and a spacecraft?
A rocket is the propulsion system that provides the thrust to launch something into space. A spacecraft is the vehicle that carries the crew, satellite, or payload; the rocket lifts it off the ground and is often discarded afterwards.
When do you use 'rocket' as a verb?
Use 'rocket' as a verb when something rises, increases, or moves very quickly and suddenly, as in 'house prices rocketed' or 'she rocketed to fame.' It stresses a fast, dramatic upward change.