Word of the day: launch

Definition of launch
verb

[with object]

• 1 set (a boat) in motion by pushing it or allowing it to roll into the water:the town’s lifeboat was launched to rescue the fishermen
• set (a newly built ship or boat) afloat for the first time with an official ceremony:the ship was launched in 1843 by Prince Albert
• send (a missile, satellite, or spacecraft) on its course:they launched two Scud missiles
• [with object and adverbial of direction] hurl (something) forcefully:a chair was launched at him
• [with adverbial of direction] (launch oneself) make a sudden energetic movement:I launched myself out of bed
• utter (criticism or a threat) vehemently:he launched a biting attack on BBC chiefs

• 2 start or set in motion (an activity or enterprise):the government is to launch a £1.25 million publicity campaign
• introduce (a new product or publication) to the public for the first time:two new Ford models are to be launched in the US next year

noun

• an act or instance of launching something:the launch of a new campaign against drinking and driving
• an occasion at which a new product or publication is introduced to the public:a book launch

Phrasal Verbs

launch into

begin (something) energetically and enthusiastically:he launched into a two-hour sales pitch

launch out

make a start on a new and challenging enterprise:she wasn’t brave enough to launch out by herself

Origin:

Middle English (in the sense 'hurl a missile, discharge with force'): from Anglo-Norman French launcher, variant of Old French lancier (see lance)