BusinessJuly 17, 2026

moonshot

/ˈmuːn.ʃɒt/

Definition

An ambitious, high-risk project or technological endeavor intended to achieve a massive breakthrough.

Etymology

Derived from the literal 1960s U.S. goal of landing a human on the moon, it has evolved to metaphorically describe any audacious, seemingly impossible undertaking in business or science.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe a Chinese artificial intelligence startup's goal to develop advanced systems that compete with elite international technology companies.

Exclusive | Databricks Set to Hit $188 Billion Valuation With New Investment From Coatue

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WSJ

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