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Bazooka Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bazooka

[bəˈzuː.kə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

military weapon

A bazooka is a portable, reusable rocket launcher that is used to fire explosive projectiles at enemy targets. It is typically anti-tank in function, allowing infantry to disable armored vehicles. The design often includes a simple tube launcher, which is shoulder-fired for maneuverability. Originating during World War II, its effectiveness in combat has made it a recognizable symbol of military power. Its lightweight nature allows soldiers to carry it easily on the battlefield.

Synonyms

anti-tank weapon, missile launcher, rocket launcher.

Examples of usage

  • The soldier aimed the bazooka at the enemy tank.
  • They trained in the use of the bazooka before deployment.
  • The military showcased the bazooka during the parade.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military Technology

  • Bazookas were primarily designed to destroy tanks and fortifications, becoming a key innovation in anti-tank warfare during World War II.
  • The introduction of handheld rocket launchers changed ground combat dynamics by allowing soldiers to engage armored vehicles more effectively.

Pop Culture

  • The bazooka has appeared in numerous films, cartoons, and video games, often depicted as a humorous, oversized weapon.
  • The term is sometimes used colloquially in sports to describe a player with an exceptionally strong throwing arm.

Cultural Impact

  • As a symbol of power and firepower, bazookas have been featured in political cartoons and anti-war protests, illustrating the tension around military force.
  • The image of a soldier with a bazooka has become iconic, representing both playful caricatures and serious military might.

Science

  • The bazooka operates on principles of physics, requiring knowledge of thrust, trajectory, and aerodynamics to function properly.
  • Research and development of anti-tank weapons like the bazooka have informed modern missile technology, influencing designs used today.

Origin of 'bazooka'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bazooka' originated in the 1940s from a musical instrument of the same name, invented by a comedian.
  • It was first used to describe the weapon in World War II, linking the playful sound of the name to the serious nature of the weapon.

The word 'bazooka' first appeared in the English language during World War II, deriving from a cartoon character in a popular radio show by the comedian Bob Burns. This character played a fictional musical instrument that resembled the bazooka launcher; hence the name was humorously adopted for the military weapon. The actual device was developed by the United States Army and saw significant use during the war, quickly becoming renowned for its role in infantry combat. The term has since been embraced in various cultures, often in both military and civilian context, symbolizing firepower and explosive potential. The bazooka's fame continued through films, video games, and popular culture, solidifying its place in modern lexicon as a representation of explosive force.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,338, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.