Ammunition: meaning, definitions and examples

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ammunition

[ˌæm.jəˈnɪʃ.ən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

military

Ammunition refers to the bullets, shells, and other materials used in weapons and guns.

Synonyms

ammo, bullets, munitions.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ammunition	Use 'ammunition' when referring to a supply of bullets or explosive material for use in guns or artillery. This term is general and can be used in both military and civilian contexts. The soldiers were running low on ammunition during the battle. Hunting regulations require all hunters to carry their ammunition responsibly.
ammo	Use 'ammo' as an informal abbreviation of 'ammunition'. It is more commonly used in casual conversation or in contexts where brevity is preferred, such as video games or colloquial speech. I need to buy more ammo for my next weekend trip to the shooting range. In the game, you have to collect ammo to stay alive.
munitions	Use 'munitions' when referring to military weapons, ammunition, and equipment collectively. This term is broader and often used in more formal or technical contexts. The factory is producing munitions for the army. Munitions supply was essential for the war effort.
bullets	Use 'bullets' specifically when referring to the individual projectiles fired from guns. It focuses on the small, metal part that is shot from firearms. He found a box of bullets in the old shed. The police recovered several bullets from the crime scene.

Examples of usage

The soldiers were running low on ammunition during the battle.
He loaded the rifle with ammunition before heading out to the shooting range.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

Ammunition can also refer to any material that can be used to attack or defend in an argument or debate.

Synonyms

arguments, defense, weapons.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ammunition	Use when referring to bullets and shells used in guns and other firearms; also applicable in a metaphorical sense when talking about arguments or information used to support a position. The soldiers ran out of ammunition during the battle. She gathered all the ammunition she needed to win the debate.
arguments	Appropriate in discussions or debates where people present reasons or evidence to support their viewpoints. They had some convincing arguments during the meeting. Her arguments were solid and well-researched.
weapons	Refers generally to tools or instruments designed for inflicting harm or damage, including guns, knives, and other arms. The police found several illegal weapons in the suspect's car. Swords and spears are ancient weapons used in battle.
defense	Use when referring to the action of defending from or resisting attack, whether in a physical, legal, sports, or other context. The team’s defense was strong and they won the game. He provided a strong defense in court to prove his innocence.

Examples of usage

She was well-prepared with facts and figures as her ammunition for the debate.
His sharp wit served as his primary ammunition in verbal sparring.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the French term 'ammunition,' which referred to the materials used to support military operations.
Originally, 'ammunition' included everything from food supplies to weaponry, but over time it has come to mean specifically projectiles.
The Latin root 'munition-' means 'fortification,' emphasizing its role in warfare.

History

In the 19th century, the invention of smokeless powder drastically changed ammunition, making firearms more efficient and powerful.
World War I saw the introduction of more advanced types of ammunition, including trench warfare artillery shells.
Historically, different cultures used unique materials for ammunition, like stones, arrows, and early gunpowder-based projectiles.

Science

The effectiveness of ammunition is closely related to ballistics, the science that examines the behavior of projectiles.
Different types of ammunition are designed for various purposes, such as hunting, sport, and military use, each with specific characteristics.
The materials used in creating ammunition have evolved, with advancements in materials science leading to better performance and safety.

Cultural Impact

Ammunition often appears in films and video games, symbolizing power, conflict, or survival.
The development of ammunition has influenced global politics and military strategies throughout history.
In literature, ammunition can serve as a metaphor for preparation and conflict, reflecting deeper themes of struggle and resistance.

Regulation and Safety

In many countries, the sale and possession of ammunition are heavily regulated to ensure public safety.
Many organizations work to promote safe handling and storage of ammunition to prevent accidents.
Training and education about ammunition safety are essential for military personnel and firearm enthusiasts.

Translations

Translations of the word "ammunition" in other languages:

🇵🇹 munição

🇮🇳 गोलाबारूद

🇩🇪 Munition

🇮🇩 amunisi

🇺🇦 боєприпаси

🇵🇱 amunicja

🇯🇵 弾薬 (だんやく)

🇫🇷 munitions

🇪🇸 municiones

🇹🇷 cephane

🇰🇷 탄약

🇸🇦 ذخيرة

🇨🇿 munice

🇸🇰 munícia

🇨🇳 弹药 (dànyào)

🇸🇮 strelivo

🇮🇸 skotfæri

🇰🇿 оқ-дәрі

🇬🇪 საწვავი

🇦🇿 döyüş sursatı

🇲🇽 municiones

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,595 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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6592 ores
6593 recognizing
6594 reprinted
6595 ammunition
6596 preached
6597 distal
6598 factual
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