I. prəˈjekt ə l, -kˌtīl, -k(ˌ)til, prōˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: New Latin, from neuter of projectilis, adjective
1. : a body projected by external force and continuing in motion by its own inertia
subatomic particles used as projectiles in atom smashing
specifically : a missile for a firearm, cannon, or other weapon
2. : a self-propelling weapon (as a rocket, torpedo, or guided missile)
II. adjective
Etymology: New Latin projectilis, from Latin projectus (past participle of proicere, projicere to throw forth) + -ilis -ile — more at projection
1. : caused or imparted by impulse or projection : impelled forward
projectile motion
2. : projecting or impelling forward
the great injury … was more owing to the gravity of the stone … than to the projectile force of it — Laurence Sterne
his family was getting on in the world and … he was to receive a projectile push from them — John Dollard
3. : capable of being hurled, thrown, or projected with force similar to a missile
4. : capable of being thrust forward
• pro·jec·tile·ly -l(l)ē adverb