ballistic missile
noun
plural ballistic missiles
: a usually rocket-powered missile that is launched in a high arc under guidance for its ascent but that is unpowered and unguided once it begins its descent compare cruise missile, guided missile
Examples of ballistic missile in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 400 drones and one ballistic missile, primarily targeting Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih and Vinnytsia -- three cities in different parts of Ukraine.
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Reuters, USA Today, 16 July 2025
The latest versions of Patriot interceptors are capable of engaging incoming short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones at altitudes up to 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) and distances of up to 35 kilometers.
—Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 15 July 2025
The onslaught of armed drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles raining down on Ukrainian towns and cities has underscored Russia’s determination to press on with its war against Ukraine despite President Donald Trump’s efforts to halt the bloodshed.
—Ryan Balberman, NBC news, 11 July 2025
The $4 million munition is in high demand and was key to defending a major U.S. air base in Qatar last month as Iran launched a ballistic missile attack in response to the U.S. targeting its nuclear facilities.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 10 July 2025
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Reuters, USA Today, 16 July 2025
The latest versions of Patriot interceptors are capable of engaging incoming short-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones at altitudes up to 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) and distances of up to 35 kilometers.
—Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 15 July 2025
The onslaught of armed drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles raining down on Ukrainian towns and cities has underscored Russia’s determination to press on with its war against Ukraine despite President Donald Trump’s efforts to halt the bloodshed.
—Ryan Balberman, NBC news, 11 July 2025
The $4 million munition is in high demand and was key to defending a major U.S. air base in Qatar last month as Iran launched a ballistic missile attack in response to the U.S. targeting its nuclear facilities.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 10 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for ballistic missile
Cite this Entry
“Ballistic missile.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ballistic%20missile. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.
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