Definitions

1. noun

A quantity with both magnitude and direction, especially in mathematics and physics.

“The vector of the rocket’s trajectory was calculated to determine its destination.”

2. noun

An aircraft or spacecraft that is capable of flight or space travel, especially a fighter or bomber.

“The military deployed a squadron of vectors to defend against enemy aircraft.”

3. noun

A gene or genetic element that can replicate independently, especially a virus or a piece of DNA.

“The scientist was studying a vector that caused a mysterious disease in the local population.”

4. verb

To guide or direct something, especially a ship or an aircraft, from one place to another.

“The captain had to vector the ship around the rocky coastline to avoid danger.”

5. verb

To aim or direct something, especially a missile or a weapon, at a target.

“The air defense system vectored the missile to hit the incoming enemy plane.”

6. verb

To move or direct something in a particular direction, especially in a complex or difficult situation.

“The pilot had to vector the plane to avoid the turbulence in the air.”