ballistic
word
Definition
'Ballistic' can mean related to projectiles or missiles and how they move through the air, or informally, it means to become very angry or out of control.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and scientific when describing projectiles, like 'ballistic missile' or 'ballistic trajectory.' Colloquially, 'go ballistic' means to become extremely angry—common in speech. Don't confuse it with 'bullets' or 'static.' The informal meaning is often used for humorous exaggeration.
Example Sentences
The military tested a ballistic missile last week.
basic
He studied ballistic science in college.
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My dad went ballistic when I broke the window.
basic
You should've seen her; she went absolutely ballistic over the bad news.
natural
I forgot our anniversary and my partner went ballistic.
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The detective is an expert in ballistic evidence.
natural