called MOTOR LAUNCH. HISTORICAL the largest boat carried on a man-of-war. late 17th cent. (denoting the longboat of a man-of-war): from Spanish lancha 'pinnace', perhaps from Malay lancharan, from lanchar 'swift, nimble'. Linked entries: MOTOR LAUNCH # launch*er n. a structure that holds a rocket or missile during launching. - a rocket that is used to convey a satellite or spacecraft into orbit. - a catapult for aircraft. - an attachment to the muzzle