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

The nuclear spending plan includes building a new intercontinental ballistic missile, the Sentinel, which has already suffered massive cost overruns. — William Hartung, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026

Their drone and ballistic missile manufacturing capability has been leveled to the ground. — NBC news, 30 Aug. 2026

Iranian drones, ballistic missiles and other projectiles have been raining down on US bases and allies across the Middle East. — Ivana Kottasová, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2026

Though a Russian ballistic missile attack against NATO countries is not imminently expected, CIA Director John Ratcliffe went to Moscow this week to warn Russia not to attack, The Wall Street Journal reported. — Emma Burrows, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for ballistic missile

• abyssal
• dismissal
• epistle
• bristle
• fissile
• gristle
• missal
• nissl
• thistle
• whistle

Kids Definition

ballistic missile

noun

: a missile that moves under its own power, is guided as it rises in a steeply curving path, and falls freely on the way back to earth