What does "trajectory" mean?

A trajectory is a path that something takes, often a missile, etc. In this context, it means that even though Google says they weren't trying to affect Microsoft, the analysts think that's what they were getting at (aiming for; moving toward) all along.

The course. The track of the motion of an artillery shell, for example. It has a curved trajectory. So, in your example, it means that Google's release was not directly aimed at the heart of Microsoft, but it'll hit the bullseye nevertheless because the trajectory was a curve. Like with a bow and arrow, if you're aiming at a far-away target, the arrow's trajectory is not in a straight line toward the target, but it is actually on a higher trajectory, up into the sky before dropping down on the target.

The path of a projectile or other moving body through space.

A chosen or taken course: “What died with [the assassinated leaders] was a moral trajectory, a style of aspiration” (Lance Morrow).

Mathematics. A curve that cuts all of a given family of curves or surfaces at the same angle.

Main Entry: tra·jec·to·ry

Pronunciation: tr&-'jek-t(&-)rE

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural -ries

Etymology: New Latin trajectoria, from feminine of trajectorius of passing, from Latin traicere to cause to cross, cross, from trans-, tra- trans- + jacere to throw -- more at JET

1 : the curve that a body (as a planet or comet in its orbit or a rocket) describes in space

2 : a path, progression, or line of development resembling a physical trajectory <an upward career trajectory>

hey trajectory means the path in which something is traveling

The direction in which an object will travel - like for a missile or a space shuttle.

A bullet, arrow, artillery shell, or missle follows a trajectory to its target.

It means "Path of flight" or the aim of the situtation in that context.

http://66.161.12.81/search?q=trajectory

path of process or event: the way in which a process or event develops over a period of time