launcher

noun

launch·​er ˈlȯn-chər How to pronounce launcher (audio)
ˈlän-
Synonyms of launchernext
: one that launches: such as
a
: a device for firing grenades
b
: a device for launching a missile

Examples of launcher in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Current tests use a launcher that holds four interceptors, but the Army and DZYNE are also working on a bigger version that can hold twelve, to help defend against large drone attacks. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 25 May 2026 The regional officials said the strikes on Iran targeted military facilities, including missile and drone launchers, mostly belonging to the Revolutionary Guard Corps. Samy Magdy, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026 The High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) is a launcher mounted on the back of a military truck that can be rapidly brought out from concealment, fire its rockets, then move quickly to a new location to avoid counter-battery fire. ABC News, 20 May 2026 The drills will involve more than 65,000 soldiers and 7,800 types of equipment and weapons, including more than 200 missile launchers, the defence ministry said. CBS News, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for launcher

Word History

First Known Use

1911, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of launcher was in 1911

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Launcher.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/launcher. Accessed 27 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on launcher

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster