noun
trajectory
truh-JEHK-tuh-ree
noun
1
The curved path an object follows as it moves through space.
"Scientists calculated the rocket's trajectory into orbit."
"The ball's trajectory carried it just over the fence."
2
The general direction or course something takes over time, such as a career or a situation.
"Her career trajectory has been remarkable since graduating."
How to Use Trajectory
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe path something follows, whether physically through the air or figuratively over time.
Common pairings
upward trajectory
flight trajectory
career trajectory
Word Forms
trajectories plural
Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “trajectory”
A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage
→
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
Scientists calculated the rocket's _____ into orbit.
Etymology
From New Latin trāiectōria, coined from Latin trāiectus ("thrown across"), from trans- ("across") + iaciō ("to throw").