Hypersonic: meaning, definitions and examples

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hypersonic

 

[ haɪpəˈsɒnɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

speed technology

Hypersonic refers to speeds that exceed five times the speed of sound, approximately 3,836 miles per hour or 6,174 kilometers per hour at sea level. This term is often used in the context of advanced military technology and aerospace engineering.

Synonyms

supersonic, ultrasonic

Examples of usage

  • Hypersonic missiles can travel faster than any traditional weapons.
  • Research in hypersonic travel aims to revolutionize air travel.
  • Hypersonic flight poses unique challenges for aircraft design.

Translations

Translations of the word "hypersonic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hipersónico

🇮🇳 हाइपरसोनिक

🇩🇪 hyperschall

🇮🇩 hipersonik

🇺🇦 гіперзвуковий

🇵🇱 hiperszybki

🇯🇵 超音速の (ちょうおんそくの)

🇫🇷 hypersonique

🇪🇸 hipersónico

🇹🇷 hipersonik

🇰🇷 초음속의 (choeumseog-ui)

🇸🇦 فائق الصوت (fa'iq al-sawt)

🇨🇿 hypersonický

🇸🇰 hypersonický

🇨🇳 超音速的 (chāo yīn sù de)

🇸🇮 hiperzvočni

🇮🇸 hypersónískur

🇰🇿 гипердыбыстық (giperdybystyq)

🇬🇪 ჰიპერსონიური (hipersoniuri)

🇦🇿 hipersəsli

🇲🇽 hipersónico

Etymology

The term 'hypersonic' emerged in the mid-20th century, combining 'hyper-' from the Greek 'huper' meaning 'over' or 'beyond,' with 'sonic' derived from the Latin 'sonus' meaning 'sound.' Initially, the focus was on ballistics and military applications, particularly during the Cold War era. Hypersonic technology gained prominence as nations pursued advanced means for missile delivery and aerospace exploration. As research has progressed, the definition has broadened to encompass various fields such as aviation, space travel, and even potentially commercial air travel. The continued development in this area reflects the ongoing quest for faster, more efficient modes of transportation and strategic military capabilities.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,527, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.