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ballistic

adjective

/bəˈlɪstɪk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ballistic

Relating to the science or technology of projectiles, such as bullets, missiles, or rockets.
"The rocket's ballistic course was carefully calculated for accuracy."

Detailed meaning of ballistic

It can also refer to the behavior of objects in motion that are subject to the laws of physics and gravity, including the trajectory, speed, and impact of these objects. In a broader sense, "ballistic" can describe any situation or behavior that is characterized by extreme or uncontrollable emotions, such as an angry outburst or a sudden burst of energy. For example, a person might say that they went "ballistic" when they received bad news or became overly excited about a particular topic. Overall, the term "ballistic" conveys a sense of power, force, and intensity.

It can also be used to describe someone who is suddenly and dramatically excited, upset, or angry. It is typically used to describe a reaction that is extreme and intense, and that may be seen as uncontrolled or irrational. For example, someone who is described as going "ballistic" might throw a tantrum, lash out in anger, or become very emotional in a short period of time. The term "ballistic" often implies that the person is so overwhelmed by their emotions that they are not able to think or act rationally. It can also be used to describe a situation that is rapidly deteriorating, or a reaction that is volatile and unpredictable. In general, the word "ballistic" is used to describe a situation or response that is marked by a sudden and intense release of energy or emotion.

Example sentences containing ballistic

1. The army tested their new ballistic missile in a remote location.
2. The scientists studied the ballistic properties of various metals.
3. The children watched the ballistic trajectory of their toy rocket.
4. The company's sales went ballistic after the new product launch.
5. The submarine is equipped with advanced ballistic capabilities.
6. She studied the ballistic curves in her physics class.

History and etymology of ballistic

The adjective 'ballistic' finds its roots in the field of projectile science. It originates from the Greek word 'ballistikos,' derived from 'ballistes,' which referred to a machine or device for throwing or hurling projectiles. The Greek 'ballistes' was itself derived from 'ballō,' meaning 'to throw' or 'to hurl.' The term 'ballistic' was later adopted into English to describe anything related to the science or technology of projectiles, including bullets, missiles, or rockets. Therefore, 'ballistic' retains a direct connection to its ancient Greek origins, where it was associated with the mechanics of throwing objects through the air, and it now encompasses a broader range of projectile-related concepts in modern contexts.

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Further usage examples of ballistic

1. The jet's speed nearly reached ballistic limits during the test.
2. He wore a jacket with ballistic panels for added protection.
3. Modern tanks employ ballistic technology for precision shooting.
4. The research lab focused on ballistic innovations for defense.
5. The pilot practiced maneuvers at nearly ballistic speeds.
6. The ballistic design of the bullet ensures maximum impact.
7. That ballistic missile defense system is state-of-the-art.
8. They watched the ballistic demonstration at the military base.
9. Drones with ballistic capabilities pose a new challenge to security.
10. The engineers discussed the ballistic coefficients of various projectiles.
11. His invention promises to revolutionize ballistic transport systems.
12. The latest spacecraft utilizes ballistic descent for re-entry.
13. The sniper adjusted his aim based on ballistic calculations.
14. The team tested the ballistic resistance of the armored vehicle.
15. They collected data on the ballistic performance of the prototype.
16. The soldier adjusted his scope for better ballistic precision.
17. The car chase reached nearly ballistic speeds on the highway.
18. The ballistic gel test revealed the projectile's penetration depth.
19. Underwater, different ballistic rules apply due to water resistance.