liftoff

noun

lift·​off ˈlift-ˌȯf How to pronounce liftoff (audio)
: a vertical takeoff by an aircraft or a rocket vehicle or missile

Examples of liftoff in a Sentence

a series of successful liftoffs Thousand of spectators gathered to watch the liftoff of the space shuttle.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How to watch SpaceX Starlink launch livestream As with most SpaceX missions, the launch will be available to stream on the company's website and its new X TV mobile app, beginning about five minutes before liftoff. Eric Lagatta, AZCentral.com, 2 Oct. 2025 The company will webcast the action, beginning 30 minutes before liftoff. Mike Wall, Space.com, 30 Sep. 2025 After launching, the Orion spacecraft will separate from the upper stage of the SLS rocket a little more than three hours after liftoff. Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2025 That’s more liftoffs than the rest of the world gets into space, combined. Noah Shachtman, Wired News, 22 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for liftoff

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of liftoff was circa 1956

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Cite this Entry

“Liftoff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/liftoff. Accessed 7 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

liftoff

noun
lift·​off ˈlif-ˌtȯf How to pronounce liftoff (audio)
: a vertical takeoff (as by a rocket)

More from Merriam-Webster on liftoff

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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