ballistics

[ buh-lis-tiks ]

noun

, (usually used with a singular verb)

1. the science or study of the motion of projectiles, as bullets, shells, or bombs.
2. the art or science of designing projectiles for maximum flight performance.

ballistics

/ bəˈlɪstɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the study of the flight dynamics of projectiles, either through the interaction of the forces of propulsion, the aerodynamics of the projectile, atmospheric resistance, and gravity ( exterior ballistics ), or through these forces along with the means of propulsion, and the design of the propelling weapon and projectile ( interior ballistics )

ballistics

/ bə-lĭs′tĭks /

1. The scientific study of the characteristics of projectiles, such as bullets or missiles, and the way they move in flight.

Other Words From

• bal·lis·ti·cian [bal-, uh, -, stish, -, uh, n], noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ballistics¹

First recorded in 1745–55; ballistic, -ics

Example Sentences

A ballistics expert testified that casings and projectiles from the scene matched a weapon found under Syed's bed.

From BBC

However, ballistics experts — including one who testified for the prosecutors during Baldwin’s grand jury proceeding, have cast doubt on Baldwin’s claims.

From Los Angeles Times

However, two ballistics experts have cast doubt on Baldwin’s claims, including an FBI forensic examiner who testified Monday in the criminal trial of Hannah Gutierrez, the “Rust” armorer who loaded the actor’s weapon that day.

From Los Angeles Times

Prosecutors have said in court papers that the case took crucial strides in the last five years as they interviewed new people, did more ballistics tests and got important witnesses to cooperate, among other steps.

From Seattle Times

The analysis from experts in ballistics and forensic testing relied on replacement parts to reassemble the gun fired by Baldwin, after parts of the pistol were broken during testing by the FBI.

From Seattle Times