trajectory
noun
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Formed with part of the prefix trans-, "across", trajectory means a "hurling across". By calculating the effect of gravity and other forces, the trajectory of an object launched into space at a known speed can be computed precisely. Missiles stand a chance of hitting their target only if their trajectory has been plotted accurately. The word is used most often in physics and engineering, but not always; we can also say, for example, that the trajectory of a whole life may be set in a person's youth, or that a new book traces the long trajectory of the French empire.
Examples of trajectory in a Sentence
Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
The nonprofit organization remains confident about its revenue trajectory after hiring new CEO Reynold Hoover last summer.
—Eric Jackson, Sportico.com, 22 May 2025
The downgrade has come as Republicans in Congress seek to approve a sweeping package of tax cuts aimed at boosting economic growth that at the same time could add trillions to the $36 trillion U.S. public debt pile, exacerbating concerns highlighted by Moody's over the U.S. fiscal trajectory.
—Davide Barbuscia, USA Today, 22 May 2025
Where negotiations land by August 12, when the 90-day window closes, will have a major impact on the broader trajectory of relations between the rival global powers.
—Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 22 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for trajectory
Cite this Entry
“Trajectory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trajectory. Accessed 2 Jun. 2025.
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trajectory
noun
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