hard launch

plural hard launches

1. aeronauticsThe launch of a guided missile in such a way that the missile's rocket engine is ignited while still inside the launch assembly or tube.

   A hard launch is technically simpler than a soft launch, but produces a large backblast.

2. businessThe release of a product or service (particularly software) to the general public.
3. informalThe explicit announcement of a romantic relationship, often via social media.

   1 more example

   The hard launch of what appeared to be the hottest new relationship in town – Billanna? Winty? – at the 2023 Met Gala saw Vogue supremo Wintour, who has hosted the Met Gala for 30 years, walk the red carpet arm in arm with the dashing and debonair Love Actually star, a man Clive James named “the nation’s leading male sexpot”.

   2023 May 2, Samuel Fishwick, “The ‘secret romance’ that got everybody talking at the Met Gala”, in The Independent

present singular third person hard launches · participle present hard launching · participle past hard launched · past hard launched

1. alternativeAlternative form of hard-launch.