ballistic missile

/bəˌlɪstɪk ˌmɪsəl/

Other forms: ballistic missiles

Definitions of ballistic missile

1. noun

   a missile that is guided in the first part of its flight but falls freely as it approaches target
   types:

   ICBM, intercontinental ballistic missile

   a ballistic missile that is capable of traveling from one continent to another

   Minuteman

   a strategic weapon system using a guided missile of intercontinental range; missiles are equipped with nuclear warheads and dispersed in hardened silos

   type of:

   missile

   a rocket carrying a warhead of conventional or nuclear explosives; may be ballistic or directed by remote control