trajectory

noun

tra·​jec·​to·​ry trə-ˈjek-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce trajectory (audio)
plural trajectories
1
: the curve that a body (such as a planet or comet in its orbit or a rocket) describes in space
2
: a path, progression, or line of development resembling a physical trajectory
an upward career trajectory

Did you know?

Formed with part of the prefix trans-, "across", trajectory means a "hurling across". By calculating the effect of gravity and other forces, the trajectory of an object launched into space at a known speed can be computed precisely. Missiles stand a chance of hitting their target only if their trajectory has been plotted accurately. The word is used most often in physics and engineering, but not always; we can also say, for example, that the trajectory of a whole life may be set in a person's youth, or that a new book traces the long trajectory of the French empire.

Examples of trajectory in a Sentence

the trajectory of the missile
Recent Examples on the Web Ballistic missiles fly on a trajectory in which anti-missile systems like the U.S.-made Patriot can anticipate their path and intercept them. Jon Gambrell, Quartz, 14 Mar. 2024 But there were at least two reforms in the Pac-12 proposal that might have altered the trajectory of college sports had they been adopted a decade ago, according to Winter, Aresco and other industry experts who reviewed the reforms at the Hotline’s request but declined to comment. Jon Wilner, The Mercury News, 14 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for trajectory 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trajectory.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

New Latin trajectoria, from feminine of trajectorius of passing, from Latin traicere to cause to cross, cross, from trans-, tra- trans- + jacere to throw — more at jet

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trajectory was in 1696

Dictionary Entries Near trajectory

Cite this Entry

“Trajectory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trajectory. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

trajectory

noun
tra·​jec·​to·​ry trə-ˈjek-t(ə-)rē How to pronounce trajectory (audio)
plural trajectories
: the curve that a body (as a planet in its orbit or a rocket) travels along in space
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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