launchpad

noun

launch·​pad ˈlȯnch-ˌpad 

ˈlänch-

variants or launch pad or less commonly launching pad

plural launchpads or launch pads also launching pads

1

: a nonflammable platform from which a rocket (such as a missile or a launch vehicle) can be launched

… a launchpad for smallish research rockets …

—David Quammen

… engineers weren't able to immediately troubleshoot the issue. Eventually the capsule had to be rolled back from the launch pad.

—AirGuide Business

It [an unmanned aircraft] requires no infrastructure, such as runways, launching pads or recovery devices.

—Sam Davis

(figurative) Keep tree branches pruned back at least 4 feet from the nearest adjacent tree or structure—8 feet if the squirrel's potential launchpad (including power lines) is higher than the tree.

—Sunset Magazine

2

: something (such as a place or event) that is suitable or favorable for growth, development, etc : springboard

… the [book's] extensive references provide a good launchpad for additional research.

—Daniel Grassam

Success at the Olympic Games has long been the launch pad for a professional career …

—Gareth A Davies

Another function of the farmers' market within the town is serving as a launching pad for new businesses.

—Danielle Sottosanti

Examples of launchpad in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The robust programming helped BIFF achieve its highest attendance in recent years, reinforcing the festival’s position as a crucial launchpad for Asian cinema even as the Korean industry grapples with unprecedented challenges. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 27 Sep. 2025

For decades, the H-1B visa has served as a gateway for some of India’s brightest minds to enter the US workforce, acting as a crucial launchpad for building long-term careers in America. —Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 22 Sep. 2025

Sheri Bronstein, Bank of America’s chief people officer, emphasized the enhanced starting salary is designed as a launchpad for long-term, sustainable careers within the organization. —Dave Smith, Fortune, 18 Sep. 2025

Girl premiered in competition earlier this month at the Venice Film Festival, a coveted launchpad for a first-time filmmaker. —Patrick Brzeski, HollywoodReporter, 18 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

launchpad

noun

launch·​pad ˈlȯnch-ˌpad 

ˈlänch-

: a nonflammable platform from which a rocket can be launched

called also launching pad