missile

n. [ L. missile. ] 1. A weapon thrown or projected or intended to be projected, as a lance, an arrow, or a bullet. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A rocket-propelled device designed to fly through the air and deliver a warhead of explosive materials to a target. [ PJC ]

Numerous types of rocket-propelled missile{ 2 } are now used in modern warfare. Some types with names indicating their range or function are: antiaircraft missile; ballistic missile; cruise missile; antiballistic missile missile; air-to-air missile; air-to-ground missile; guided missile; intercontinental ballistic missile (IBM); intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM); surface-to-air missile.