targeting

tar·get  (tärgt)

n.

1.

a. An object, such as a padded disk with a marked surface, that is shot at to test accuracy in rifle or archery practice.

b. Something aimed or fired at.

2. An object of criticism or attack.

3. One to be influenced or changed by an action or event.

4. A desired goal.

5. A railroad signal that indicates the position of a switch by its color, position, and shape.

6. The sliding sight on a surveyor's leveling rod.

7. A small round shield.

8.

a. A structure in a television camera tube with a storage surface that is scanned by an electron beam to generate a signal output current similar to the charge-density pattern stored on the surface.

b. A usually metal part in an x-ray tube on which a beam of electrons is focused and from which x-rays are emitted.

tr.v. tar·get·ed, tar·get·ing, tar·gets

1. To make a target of.

2. To aim at or for.

3. To establish as a target or goal.

Idiom:

on target

Completely accurate, precise, or valid: observations that were right on target.

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[Middle English, small targe, from Old French targuete, variant of targete, diminutive of targe, light shield, of Germanic origin.]

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The process of selecting and prioritizing targets and matching the appropriate response to them, taking account of operational requirements and capabilities. See also joint targeting coordination board; target.