Definition of velocity of escape
: a velocity that if attained by a moving body (as a rocket) would enable it to escape from the gravitational field of the earth or a celestial body and move outward in space
- the ability of a celestial body to retain an atmosphere around it depends on the velocity of escape at its surface
- —R. H. Baker
- this critical speed of seven miles a second is known as the earth's velocity of escape
- —P. A. Moore
