trajectory

noun

tra·​jec·​to·​ry trə-ˈjek-t(ə-)rē 

plural trajectories

1

: the curve that a body (such as a planet or comet in its orbit or a rocket) describes in space

the trajectory of a missile

2

: a path, progression, or line of development resembling a physical trajectory

an upward career trajectory

the nation's economic trajectory

Did you know?

Formed with part of the prefix trans-, "across", trajectory means a "hurling across". By calculating the effect of gravity and other forces, the trajectory of an object launched into space at a known speed can be computed precisely. Missiles stand a chance of hitting their target only if their trajectory has been plotted accurately. The word is used most often in physics and engineering, but not always; we can also say, for example, that the trajectory of a whole life may be set in a person's youth, or that a new book traces the long trajectory of the French empire.

Examples of trajectory in a Sentence

the trajectory of the missile

Recent Examples on the Web

There will be debates about taxes, energy policy, and the trajectory of this state, and voters deserve to see those disagreements fought out in full. — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Hartford Courant, 13 Aug. 2026

By contrast, already employed women who start taking GLP-1s don't see a boost at work, with their career trajectories likely reflecting a number of other factors, the study found. — Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026

The series follows Anna Pigeon (Tracy Spiridakos), a former city slicker who became a park ranger after a devastating loss changed the trajectory of her life forever. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026

Bonvicini, who also serves as creative director, said the launch at Nordstrom represents a significant next step in the brand’s growth trajectory. — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

New Latin trajectoria, from feminine of trajectorius of passing, from Latin traicere to cause to cross, cross, from trans-, tra- trans- + jacere to throw — more at jet

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for trajectory

• directory
• refectory
• nectary
• rectory
• subdirectory

Kids Definition

trajectory

noun

tra·​jec·​to·​ry trə-ˈjek-t(ə-)rē 

plural trajectories

: the curve that a body (as a planet in its orbit or a rocket) travels along in space