# launch

/ˈɫɔntʃ/ (US) · /lˈɔːntʃ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/launch
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to start a project or product

verb · CEFR B1

to start a new business, project, or to put a new product on sale for the first time.

For teachers: to initiate a scheme or project, or to introduce a new product or service to the public market.

- The company plans to launch its new smartphone early next year.
- The marketing department is preparing to launch a global campaign to coincide with the release of the sustainable clothing line.

### 2. to send into the air or water

verb · CEFR B1

to send a rocket into space or to put a new ship into the water for the first time.

For teachers: to propel a vehicle, such as a rocket or missile, into the air, or to set a vessel afloat in the water.

- NASA will launch the satellite once the weather conditions are perfect.
- The shipyard workers cheered as the massive hull was finally launched into the harbour after months of construction.

### 3. to open a computer program

verb · CEFR B1

to start a computer program or an app.

For teachers: to execute or bring a software application or feature into operation.

- You can launch the app by clicking on the icon on your desktop.
- The system may take a few moments to launch the heavy video editing software due to the limited memory available.

### 4. a starting event

noun · CEFR B1

an event or the act of starting something new.

For teachers: the act of initiating a project or the formal event held to celebrate the introduction of a new product.

- I was invited to the book launch at the local library.
- The official launch of the charity foundation was attended by several high-profile donors and local politicians.

### 5. a type of boat

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a large motorboat used for carrying people over short distances.

For teachers: a large, often open, powerboat used for transport between a ship and the shore or for pleasure trips.

- The captain took the launch from the yacht to the harbour.
- A small steam launch waited at the jetty to ferry the passengers across the lake to the summer estate.

## Examples

- The company is preparing for the launch of its new phone.
- After months of testing, the official launch of the app is scheduled for next Tuesday morning.
- The successful launch of the satellite marked a significant milestone in the country's space program, opening up new possibilities for global communication and research.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.