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

Now in its fifth season, Rising Voices continues to evolve, solidifying its place as a launchpad for cinematic innovation. —Okla Jones, Essence, 22 Dec. 2024

All of which is to say, there’s never been a better moment to visit—and with the arrival of the Corinthia Bucharest in 2025, there’ll be a dazzling new five-star stay to serve as your launchpad for exploring this most underrated of European countries. —Elise Taylor, Vogue, 20 Dec. 2024

Related Articles 49ers may get Bosa, Greenlaw back vs. Rams, but bad news elsewhere Standout defensive lineman earns rare honor for 49ers How to watch 49ers vs. Rams on Thursday Night Football 49ers have used Rams as a launchpad to playoffs in the past. —Dieter Kurtenbach, The Mercury News, 11 Dec. 2024

The 70-year-old provided invaluable material and political support for Russian ally President Vladimir Putin in his war on Ukraine, even offering Belarus as a launchpad for the doomed Russian drive towards Kyiv in the early stages of the full-scale invasion. —David Brennan, ABC News, 5 Dec. 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