delta-v

noun

A vector change in velocity, especially a small change as a result of a corresponding change in some other parameter.

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Meanings

noundelta-v (plural delta-vs)

plural delta-vs

  1. natural sciencesA vector change in velocity, especially a small change as a result of a corresponding change in some other parameter.
  2. space flightThe maximum possible change in the scalar speed of a rocket or other vehicle if operated in a vacuum away from external forces.
  3. space flightThe minimum scalar change in speed required to perform a particular manoeuvre.

Origin

From delta (“change”) + v (“velocity”).

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Cite this entry
APA

delta-v. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 4, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/delta-v

MLA

“delta-v.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/delta-v. Accessed November 4, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “delta-v,” accessed November 4, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/delta-v.

Source: delta-v on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.