Bomber Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bomber

[ˈbɒmə ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

aircraft

A bomber is a military aircraft designed to attack ground or naval targets by dropping bombs on them.

Synonyms

bomber aircraft, bombing plane.

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Word Description / Examples
bomber

Used to refer to a military aircraft designed to drop bombs. This term can have a general or casual connotation and might be used in both everyday conversation and formal discussions about military equipment.

  • The bomber flew over the city at night.
  • In the museum, we saw a World War II bomber.
bomber aircraft

Utilized in more formal or technical contexts, especially within military or aviation circles. This term specifies the type of aircraft and is less likely to be used casually.

  • The bomber aircraft was loaded with precision-guided munitions.
  • During the briefing, the commander discussed the capabilities of the new bomber aircraft.
bombing plane

Less common than the other terms and might be used in more informal or descriptive contexts. It clearly describes the purpose of the aircraft but can sound somewhat outdated.

  • During the war, the bombing plane targeted enemy supply lines.
  • The pilot's mission was to fly the bombing plane into enemy territory.

Examples of usage

  • The bomber flew over the enemy territory.
  • The bomber successfully hit the target.
Context #2 | Noun

person

A bomber is a person who plants bombs in public places with the intention of causing harm or destruction.

Synonyms

bomberman, terrorist.

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Word Description / Examples
bomber

Refers to an individual or aircraft that drops bombs, without necessarily implying any specific motive or affiliation. It can be used in both military and civilian contexts.

  • The Air Force deployed a bomber to carry out the mission.
  • The bomber dropped the payload over the enemy's position.
terrorist

Used to describe an individual or group that uses violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, to achieve political, religious, or ideological goals. This term has a very negative connotation.

  • The terrorist group claimed responsibility for the attack.
  • Security forces are on high alert to prevent terrorist activities.
bomberman

Generally refers to a character or someone involved in the video game series 'Bomberman.' It is not commonly used in everyday language outside of this context.

  • Bomberman is a popular game where players strategically place bombs to defeat opponents.
  • I've been a fan of Bomberman since I was a kid.

Examples of usage

  • The police arrested the bomber before he could detonate the bomb.
  • The bomber was sentenced to life in prison for the terrorist attack.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The first bomber planes were used in World War I, marking a significant evolution in military aviation.
  • By World War II, bombers became crucial in warfare, with famous models like the B-17 Flying Fortress and the Lancaster adapting to various combat roles.
  • The use of bombers transformed strategies, allowing for aerial attacks that could devastate enemy positions from above.

Technology

  • Modern bombers, like the B-2 Spirit, use stealth technology to evade radar detection, making them harder to intercept.
  • They can carry a variety of payloads, from conventional bombs to nuclear weapons, showcasing advancements in military technology.
  • Drones are also becoming a form of 'bomber', allowing for remote operations without pilots in danger.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Dambusters' and 'Memphis Belle' highlight the heroics and challenges faced by bomber crews during significant historical missions.
  • The term 'bomber' has made its way into gaming, with numerous video games incorporating bomber aircraft as a key element of strategy and combat.
  • In music, some bands have named their albums or songs after bombers, reflecting cultural interpretations of air power.

Psychology

  • The strategic use of bombers in warfare can lead to intense psychological effects on both soldiers and civilians, inducing fear and changing societal perceptions of war.
  • Studies show that the depiction of bombers in media can influence public opinion regarding military actions and conflicts.
  • The presence of bombers in historical narrative shapes collective memory and national identity during wartime.

Literature

  • Bombers frequently appear in literature as symbols of destruction and the horrors of war, influencing narratives in both fiction and non-fiction.
  • Authors like Kurt Vonnegut, in 'Slaughterhouse-Five', have explored the impact of aerial bombing on humanity, weaving those themes into their storytelling.
  • Exploring the lives of bomber crews provides rich material for character development, highlighting themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas of warfare.

Origin of 'bomber'

The word 'bomber' originated in the early 20th century, derived from the verb 'bomb,' which in turn comes from the French word 'bombe' meaning 'shell.' The use of bombers in warfare dates back to World War I, where they were first used to drop bombs over enemy targets. Over the years, bombers have evolved in design and technology, playing a significant role in military operations.


See also: bomb, bombast, bombastic, bombing, bombs, bombshell.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,333, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.