To launch something is to start it forcefully or officially, such as sending a rocket into space, putting a boat into water, or beginning a new project or product.
From Middle English *launchen* or *lenchen*, meaning to throw or cast, influenced by Old French *lancier*, to hurl a spear. The sense of starting ships and projects grew from the idea of sending something off with energy.
Whether it’s a spaceship or a startup, *launch* always carries that feeling of a powerful shove into the unknown. The word still echoes its older meaning of literally throwing something forward.
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