launches; launched; launching
1
a
: to send or shoot (something, such as a rocket) into the air or water or into outer space
launch a rocket/missile/torpedo
launch a satellite
b
: to put (a boat or ship) on the water
launch a battleship/lifeboat
c
: to throw (something) forward in a forceful way
launch [=hurl] a spear
I was terrified when the ferocious animal suddenly launched itself at me. [=suddenly jumped at me]
2
a
: to begin (something that requires much effort)
The enemy launched an attack at sunrise.
She's trying to launch a new career as a singer.
launch a business
launch an experiment
The police have launched an investigation into his activities.
b
: to cause (a person or group) to start to be successful in a career, business, etc.
He helped launch her in her career as a singer.
c
: to offer or sell (something) for the first time
The company is expected to launch several new products next year.
launch a Web site
3
computers
: to cause (a program) to start operating
You can launch the program by double-clicking on the icon.
plural launches
: an act of launching something: such as
a
: an act of shooting something (such as a rocket or missile) into the air or into outer space
a rocket launch
b
: an act of beginning a major activity
the launch of an attack
the launch of a new business
c
: an act or occasion when something new (such as a new product) is first offered or announced
the launch of a Web site
a party to celebrate the launch of a new product/book = a launch party for a new product/book
plural launches
: a boat that carries passengers to the shore from a larger boat that is in a harbor
Cite this Entry
“Launch.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/launch. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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