Ammunition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฃ
ammunition
[หรฆm.jษหnษชส.ษn ]
Definitions
military
Ammunition refers to the bullets, shells, and other materials used in weapons and guns.
Synonyms
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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
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.
general
Ammunition can also refer to any material that can be used to attack or defend in an argument or debate.
Synonyms
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.
|
| arguments |
Appropriate in discussions or debates where people present reasons or evidence to support their viewpoints.
|
| weapons |
Refers generally to tools or instruments designed for inflicting harm or damage, including guns, knives, and other arms.
|
| defense |
Use when referring to the action of defending from or resisting attack, whether in a physical, legal, sports, or other context.
|
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.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
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.
Origin of 'ammunition'
Main points about word origin
- 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.
The word 'ammunition' has its roots in the Middle French word 'amonition', which meant 'provisioning'. The term evolved to refer specifically to military supplies, especially bullets and gunpowder. Over time, 'ammunition' came to encompass a broader range of materials used in weapons and arguments, reflecting the dual nature of the word in military and general contexts.