noun / verb
rocket
RAHK-it/ˈrɑːkɪt/
A vehicle propelled by expelling gases.
The rocket rises as hot gases rush from its engines.
Etymology
The diminutive of rocca named a bobbin, whose cylindrical shape supplied the image for an early fireworks rocket. The name later extended to devices propelled by rocket engines.
In context
That rocket can and must carry us to our home planet. It is our last remaining hope.
More examples
- A rocket carries the satellite into orbit.
- Firework rockets burst into bright colors overhead.
- Gas prices rocketed after the storm.
Forms
rocket · rockets · rocketed · rocketing
rocketry noun — The science of designing and operating rockets.
Similar words
- missile
- A weapon directed at a target, not necessarily rocket-powered.
- spacecraft
- A vehicle for space travel, regardless of its propulsion system.