GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 2 definitions 

  1.       

    Missile , a. [L. missils, fr. mittere, missum, to cause to go, to send, to throw; cf. Lith. mesti to throw: cf. F. missile. Cf. Admit, Dismiss, Mass the religious service, Message, Mission.] Capable of being thrown; adapted for hurling or to be projected from the hand, or from any instrument or engine{2}, so as to strike an object at a distance.
    1913 Webster
    We bend the bow, or wing the missile dart.
    Pope.

    1913 Webster
    
      
    
  2.       

    Missile, 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
      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.