noun
Uncommon
projectile
pruh-JEHK-tuh-ihl
Projectile (noun) means an object fired or thrown through the air, especially from a weapon. Example: “The catapult launched heavy stone projectiles over the wall.”
noun
1
An object fired or thrown through the air, especially from a weapon.
"The catapult launched heavy stone projectiles over the wall."
adj
1
Relating to being thrown or shot forward with force.
"The illness caused sudden projectile vomiting."
How to use projectile
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething (or someone) thrown or fired forcefully forward.
Common pairings
a projectile weapon
projectile motion
projectile vomiting
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like projectile.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- projectiles
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The catapult launched heavy stone _____ over the wall.
Etymology
From Latin proicio, "to throw forward," via Medieval Latin proiectilis.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for projectile
See all rhymes for projectile →Frequently asked questions
What does “projectile” mean?
The word “projectile” means an object fired or thrown through the air, especially from a weapon. In plain terms, something (or someone) thrown or fired forcefully forward.
How do you pronounce “projectile”?
“Projectile” is pronounced pruh-JEHK-tuh-ihl (/pɹəˈd͡ʒɛk.taɪl/ in IPA).
How do you use “projectile” in a sentence?
Here is “projectile” used in a sentence: “The catapult launched heavy stone projectiles over the wall.”
What part of speech is “projectile”?
Depending on how it is used, “projectile” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “projectile” come from?
The word “projectile” comes from Medieval Latin. From Latin proicio, "to throw forward," via Medieval Latin proiectilis.
Is “projectile” a common word?
“Projectile” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “projectile” have?
“Projectile” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an object fired or thrown through the air, especially from a weapon.
