Definitions beginning with M

A unit of length equal to 0.001 of an inch. Used in measuring the diameter of wires, and the thickness of fabric and plastic sheeting.

Bureau of Reclamation - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Contraction joint, Control joint, Foot-Pound, Gallon, Micron, Pounds per square inch (psi or lb/in2)

In telecommunications, a specified distance used in tariff calculations, i.e., toll charge calculations. Note: Mileage is locally defined and often refers to airline distance rather than actual communication system route miles.
ATIS - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: communication configuration, Subscriber, symmetry

The ability to achieve a specified wartime objective (win a war or battle, destroy a target set). It includes four major components: a). Force Structure -- Numbers, size and composition of the units that compromise our Defense forces; b) Modernization -- Technical sophistication of forces, units, weapon systems, and equipment; c) Readiness -- The ability of forces, units, weapon systems, or equipment to deliver the outputs for which they were designed; d) Sustainability -- The ability to maintain the necessary level and duration of operational activity to achieve military objectives. Sustainability is a function of providing for and maintaining those levels of ready forces, materiel, and consumables necessary to support military effort.
DoD Missile Defense Agency - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Combat Readiness, Combat Ready, Equipment Operationally Ready, In-Line, Operational Availability, Operational Readiness, System Readiness, System Readiness Objective

A ridge that interrupts the view between a valley and a hilltop.

Bureau of Reclamation - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Cross-section, Draw, Foreshore, Littoral, Thalweg

The determination of: (1) what targets to defend and their priorities in order to achieve the selected national strategy, and (2) the type of attackers (and/or their corridors) to be intercepted.
DoD Missile Defense Agency - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Laddering Down, Preferential Defense Strategy, Preferential Offense, Selectivity, Size of Threat Corridor

The military worth of a system performing its mission in a competitive environment, including versatility (or potential) of the system. It is measured against the operational concept, operational effectiveness, safety, security, and cost/worth. Military utility estimates form a rational basis for making management decisions.
DoD Missile Defense Agency - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration (ACTD), Battle Damage Assessment (BDA), Combat Assessment (CA), Military Operational Requirements

A plant that has been used in some cultures to treat certain medical problems, including stomach, liver, and gallbladder disorders. The active extract of milk thistle seeds is called silymarin. It is being studied in the prevention of liver damage caused by some cancer treatments. Also called Silybum marianum.
National Cancer Institute - Cite This Source - This Definition
Browse Related Terms: ginkgo, ginkgo biloba, herbal medicine, maidenhair tree, Silybum marianum, silymarin