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Launcher: meaning, definitions and examples

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launcher

 

[ˈlɔːn(t)ʃə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

missile

A device that launches a projectile or missile. It can be used for military purposes or for space exploration.

Synonyms

missile launcher, projectile launcher, rocket launcher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
launcher

A general term used to describe a device or mechanism that launches projectiles or other objects. Suitable for both casual and technical discussions.

  • The engineers tested the new launcher
  • The app launching process is straightforward
rocket launcher

Typically used in both military and civilian space exploration contexts, a rocket launcher refers to a system that launches self-propelled rockets.

  • The soldiers prepared the rocket launcher for the mission
  • Engineers built a rocket launcher to deploy satellites
missile launcher

A specific term used in military contexts to describe a system designed to launch missiles, often with destructive capability. This term carries a negative connotation due to its association with warfare.

  • The military base has a missile launcher ready for defense
  • They discovered an abandoned missile launcher in the war zone
projectile launcher

Used in technical or engineering contexts to describe a device that launches any type of projectile, including non-lethal ones such as tests in scientific experiments.

  • The laboratory's projectile launcher can accurately simulate various speeds
  • He designed a small projectile launcher for his science project

Examples of usage

  • The rocket launcher was used to launch the spacecraft into orbit.
  • The missile launcher was aimed at the enemy target.
  • The grenade launcher was used by the soldiers in combat.
Context #2 | Noun

software

A program or tool used to launch other applications or processes on a computer. It provides an easy way to access and start various programs.

Synonyms

app launcher, application launcher, program launcher.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
launcher

A general term for a tool or interface that starts applications, games, or programs. Often used in a variety of computing and tech contexts without specifying a particular type of application.

  • The new phone's launcher is very user-friendly.
  • You can customize your launcher to better fit your needs.
app launcher

Specific to mobile devices or operating systems, highlighting that it deals with starting applications, especially on smartphones or tablets.

  • I rearranged my app launcher to have my favorite apps at the top.
  • The app launcher on this phone is very intuitive and easy to use.
program launcher

Typically refers to tools or interfaces that start traditional desktop applications or software programs, often in a personal computer context.

  • The program launcher on my PC makes it easy to open all my software.
  • With just one click on the program launcher, the word processor starts quickly.
application launcher

A more formal term often used in professional or technical documentation. It is preferred in contexts where clarity and specificity are required.

  • The application launcher allows users to quickly access the tools they need for their work.
  • Updating the application launcher can sometimes improve the overall performance of the device.

Examples of usage

  • The app launcher on my phone helps me quickly access my favorite apps.
  • The Windows launcher allows me to customize my desktop and organize my files.
  • The game launcher is where I launch all my favorite games.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'launcher' comes from the verb 'launch,' which means to throw or send something off into the air.
  • The word 'launch' has roots in the Old French 'lancer,' meaning to throw or hurl.
  • In nautical terms, a 'launch' originally referred to a small boat used to transport people or goods.

Technology

  • In computing, a 'launcher' can refer to a user interface that allows users to access or start applications easily.
  • Mobile devices use app launchers to manage and organize your installed applications for quick access.
  • In gaming, a 'launcher' is a program where you can start games, often giving updates and managing game settings.

Space Exploration

  • The term defines equipment like 'space launch vehicles,' which are designed to send payloads into orbit.
  • NASA's 'Space Launch System' is a powerful rocket that serves as a launcher for deep space missions.
  • SpaceX’s Falcon 9 is a reusable launcher that reduces costs and increases the frequency of space missions.

Business and Marketing

  • Companies often hold 'product launch' events to introduce new items, similar to launching a rocket into the market.
  • The term is also used in the context of launching advertising campaigns to promote new products effectively.
  • A successful launch can significantly impact sales, making marketing strategies around launch days crucial.

Gaming Culture

  • Game 'launchers' often provide community features, allowing players to chat and share content beyond just starting games.
  • Some popular launchers in gaming include Steam, Epic Games Store, and Blizzard's Battle.net, each with distinctive features.
  • The evolution of launchers reflects changing trends in digital distribution and player engagement.

Translations

Translations of the word "launcher" in other languages:

🇵🇹 lançador

🇮🇳 लॉन्चर

🇩🇪 Startprogramm

🇮🇩 peluncur

🇺🇦 пускова установка

🇵🇱 wyrzutnia

🇯🇵 ランチャー (ranchā)

🇫🇷 lanceur

🇪🇸 lanzador

🇹🇷 başlatıcı

🇰🇷 발사기 (balsagi)

🇸🇦 قاذف

🇨🇿 spouštěč

🇸🇰 spúšťač

🇨🇳 启动器 (qǐdòngqì)

🇸🇮 zaganjalnik

🇮🇸 ræsir

🇰🇿 ұшырғыш

🇬🇪 გამშვები

🇦🇿 buraxıcı

🇲🇽 lanzador

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,978, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.