launchpad

noun

launch·​pad ˈlȯnch-ˌpad 

ˈlänch-

variants or launch pad or less commonly launching pad

plural launchpads or launch pads also launching pads

1

: a nonflammable platform from which a rocket (such as a missile or a launch vehicle) can be launched

… a launchpad for smallish research rockets …

—David Quammen

… engineers weren't able to immediately troubleshoot the issue. Eventually the capsule had to be rolled back from the launch pad.

—AirGuide Business

It [an unmanned aircraft] requires no infrastructure, such as runways, launching pads or recovery devices.

—Sam Davis

(figurative) Keep tree branches pruned back at least 4 feet from the nearest adjacent tree or structure—8 feet if the squirrel's potential launchpad (including power lines) is higher than the tree.

—Sunset Magazine

2

: something (such as a place or event) that is suitable or favorable for growth, development, etc : springboard

… the [book's] extensive references provide a good launchpad for additional research.

—Daniel Grassam

Success at the Olympic Games has long been the launch pad for a professional career …

—Gareth A Davies

Another function of the farmers' market within the town is serving as a launching pad for new businesses.

—Danielle Sottosanti

Examples of launchpad in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Notably, 96% of the lineup will premiere globally at the festival, further cementing Sundance’s reputation as a launchpad for innovative cinema. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 11 Dec. 2024

Some serious thespians in the past have used the SNL stage as a misguided launchpad to show off their quiet command of commedia dell’arte or whatever. —Joe Berkowitz, Vulture, 8 Dec. 2024

By bridging the gap between academia, research, and entrepreneurship, Hero House serves as a launchpad for startups that might otherwise struggle to gain traction. —Melissa Houston, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024

It is now positioned as more of a launchpad for newer brands. —Rhonda Richford, WWD, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1957, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

launchpad

noun

launch·​pad ˈlȯnch-ˌpad 

ˈlänch-

: a nonflammable platform from which a rocket can be launched

called also launching pad