launch pad

Or launchpad

noun

1. the platform on which a missile or launch vehicle undergoes final prelaunch checkout and countdown and from which it is launched from the surface of the earth.

2. something that serves to launch or initiate.

   He used his legal experience as a launch pad for his career in politics.

launch pad

noun

1. a platform from which a spacecraft, rocket, etc, is launched

2. an effective starting point for a career, enterprise, or campaign

Word History and Origins

Origin of launch pad¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

He will be welcoming the success after three Starship launches ended in failure this year, and one rocket exploded on the launch pad in June.

From BBC

Its list of targets, which includes military bases, missile launch pads and factories, is now widening to economic and oil facilities.

From BBC

But being the best club team in the world “is like a launch pad. It’s just incredible the exposure you’ve got.”

From Los Angeles Times

The New Shepard rocket is designed to be fully reusable and its booster returns to the launch pad for vertical landings after each flight, reducing overall costs.

From BBC

The importance of the Moon to many private firms, said Dr Barber, was to use it as a launch pad for exploring the rest of space.

From BBC

Related Words

• launching pad www.thesaurus.com