launch vehicle

noun

: a rocket used to launch a satellite or spacecraft

Examples of launch vehicle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Demand for these components is expected to rise as the country accelerates work on hypersonic weapons, missile defense systems, commercial launch vehicles, and advanced nuclear energy projects. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 26 June 2026 Greece’s satellite network is part of a European push linking launch vehicles, navigation systems, Earth observation networks and secure communications into a more sovereign technological ecosystem. ABC News, 26 June 2026 In addition to its significant satellite manufacturing business, OHB is involved in two launch vehicle programs through its subsidiary MT Aerospace, a major supplier to the Ariane 6 program, and its stake in Rocket Factory Augsburg. Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 26 June 2026 Wallops generally hosts small and medium-lift launch vehicles, like Northrop Grumman’s Antares rocket and Rocket Lab's Electron, but has taken steps to support Rocket Lab's upcoming Neutron, as well as Firefly Aerospace's Alpha rocket, which is expected to launch from the site sometime this year. Josh Dinner, Space.com, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for launch vehicle

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1960, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of launch vehicle was circa 1960

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Cite this Entry

“Launch vehicle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/launch%20vehicle. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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