delta-v
nounEtymology From delta (“change”) + v (“velocity”).
1
Natural sciences, Physical sciences, Physics A vector change in velocity, especially a small change as a result of a corresponding change in some other parameter.
2
Aerospace, Astronautics, Business, Engineering, Natural sciences, Physical sciences The maximum possible change in the scalar speed of a rocket or other vehicle if operated in a vacuum away from external forces.
3
Aerospace, Astronautics, Business, Engineering, Natural sciences, Physical sciences The minimum scalar change in speed required to perform a particular manoeuvre.