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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 notes

In plain EnglishSomething (or someone) thrown or fired forcefully forward.

Common pairings
a projectile weapon projectile motion projectile vomiting

Word forms

projectiles plural

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The catapult launched heavy stone _____ over the wall.

Etymology

From Latin proicio, "to throw forward," via Medieval Latin proiectilis.

Origin: Medieval Latin

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.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial