launcher
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a machine or device that sends something into the air, like a rocket or a ball.
a mechanical apparatus designed to propel a projectile, vehicle, or other object into motion or flight.
Simple“The space agency checked the rocket launcher several times before the countdown began.”
In context“Engineers spent months refining the pneumatic launcher to ensure the satellite could be deployed into orbit with absolute precision.”
UsageOften used in compound nouns like 'rocket launcher' or 'grenade launcher'.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a computer program or menu that lets you easily find and open your other apps.
a software utility or graphical user interface element that enables a user to locate and initiate other programs.
Simple“You can customize your phone's launcher to change how the icons look on your home screen.”
In context“The new operating system update includes a streamlined launcher that categorizes applications based on the user's most frequent activities.”
UsageCommonly refers to the 'home screen' software on mobile devices or game-specific startup menus.
Teacher's tipIn modern tech contexts, this almost always refers to the home screen environment on an Android device.
“US Central Command says its forces bombed two rocket launchers of the IRGC on Larak Island.”
“US forces have struck two Iranian launchers on Iran's Larak island, a US official said, marking the first known American strikes on Iran since late July.”
From launch + -er.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.