payload
word
Definition
The main load or cargo that a vehicle, rocket, or drone is designed to carry, often the part that is delivered to its destination. In technology, it can also refer to the main part of data being transmitted or carried, or to harmful code in a computer virus.
Usage & Nuances
Most commonly used in technical and scientific contexts, especially aerospace and IT. In aerospace, 'payload' is the valuable cargo (like satellites, humans, or explosives). In computing, 'payload' often means the actual data, or malicious code within malware. Avoid using for everyday packages or suitcases.
Example Sentences
The rocket carried a satellite as its payload.
basic
A drone can deliver medical supplies in its payload.
basic
The engineer designed a stronger payload bay for the spacecraft.
basic
The virus's payload was activated when the file was opened.
natural
We're testing how much weight this drone can carry as its payload.
natural
The payload of the email was a hidden malware attachment.
natural