Missile \Mis"sile\, 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] Note: 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}.