# launcher

/ˈɫɔntʃɝ/ (US) · /lˈɔːntʃɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/launcher
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. mechanical device

noun · CEFR B2

a machine or device that sends something into the air, like a rocket or a ball.

For teachers: a mechanical apparatus designed to propel a projectile, vehicle, or other object into motion or flight.

- The space agency checked the rocket launcher several times before the countdown began.
- Engineers spent months refining the pneumatic launcher to ensure the satellite could be deployed into orbit with absolute precision.

Usage: Often used in compound nouns like 'rocket launcher' or 'grenade launcher'.

### 2. software interface

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

a computer program or menu that lets you easily find and open your other apps.

For teachers: a software utility or graphical user interface element that enables a user to locate and initiate other programs.

- You can customize your phone's launcher to change how the icons look on your home screen.
- The new operating system update includes a streamlined launcher that categorizes applications based on the user's most frequent activities.

Usage: Commonly refers to the 'home screen' software on mobile devices or game-specific startup menus.

Teaching tip: In modern tech contexts, this almost always refers to the home screen environment on an Android device.

## Examples

- I added the new game to my app launcher.
- Many users prefer a custom launcher on their phones to change how the home screen looks and behaves.
- The system administrator configured a restricted launcher for the public terminals, ensuring that users could only access the web browser and basic word processing software.

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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.