n. A rocket-propelled missile of long range which is guided only during the powered portion of its flight, which usually takes only a small part of the total flight time; -- contrasted with guided missile. Ballistic missiles are sometimes referred to by their range, such as an
intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) or an
intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM). [ PJC ]

a. [ L. missils, fr. mittere, missum, to cause to go, to send, to throw; cf. Lith. mesti to throw: cf. F. missile. Cf. Admit, Dismiss, Mass the religious service, Message, Mission. ] Capable of being thrown; adapted for hurling or to be projected from the hand, or from any instrument or engine{ 2 }, so as to strike an object at a distance. [ 1913 Webster ]

We bend the bow, or wing the missile dart. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ L. missile. ] 1. A weapon thrown or projected or intended to be projected, as a lance, an arrow, or a bullet. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A rocket-propelled device designed to fly through the air and deliver a warhead of explosive materials to a target. [ PJC ]

Numerous types of rocket-propelled missile{ 2 } are now used in modern warfare. Some types with names indicating their range or function are: antiaircraft missile; ballistic missile; cruise missile; antiballistic missile missile; air-to-air missile; air-to-ground missile; guided missile; intercontinental ballistic missile (IBM); intermediate range ballistic missile (IRBM); surface-to-air missile.