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Bombs Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bombs

[bÉ’mz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in warfare

Explosive devices used as weapons, typically designed to explode on impact or be detonated at a specific time. Bombs can vary in size and power, from small hand grenades to large aerial bombs.

Synonyms

explosives, missiles, ordnance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bombs

Used to describe explosive devices designed to cause destruction, commonly in warfare or terrorist attacks.

  • The city was heavily damaged by bombs during the war.
  • Authorities found bombs planted in the downtown area.

Examples of usage

  • Bombs were dropped on enemy territory during the war.
  • The bomb was defused by the bomb disposal squad.
  • The terrorist attack involved the use of homemade bombs.
Context #2 | Noun

in slang

Something impressive, excellent, or exciting. Often used to describe a performance or event that is very successful or thrilling.

Synonyms

amazing, fantastic, outstanding.

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Word Description / Examples
bombs

Informal context, suggesting something is highly impressive or excellent, often used among friends or in casual conversations.

  • The new restaurant in town is the bombs!
  • His performance in the game was absolutely the bombs.
amazing

General positive context, implying something that causes great surprise or wonder, used in both casual and formal situations.

  • The view from the mountaintop was simply amazing.
  • She did an amazing job on her presentation.
fantastic

Positive context, indicating something extraordinarily good or wonderful, slightly more enthusiastic than 'amazing', suitable in both casual and somewhat formal conversations.

  • The concert last night was fantastic!
  • That's a fantastic idea, let's implement it.
outstanding

Highly positive context, often used in more formal situations to describe something exceptionally good or distinguished.

  • Her academic achievements were outstanding.
  • The new software upgrade is outstanding in terms of performance.

Examples of usage

  • That concert was the bomb, everyone loved it!
  • Her new song is the bomb, it's already at the top of the charts.
Context #3 | Verb

slang

To achieve great success or acclaim, especially in a sudden or sensational way.

Synonyms

disappoint, fail, flop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bombs

Used when referring to an explosive device or in slang to describe something that goes disastrously wrong, typically in entertainment or performance.

  • The movie totally bombed at the box office.
  • They found two unexploded bombs during construction.
fail

Suitable in situations where someone or something does not succeed in achieving a goal or task.

  • She failed the exam despite studying hard.
  • The project failed due to a lack of funding.
flop

Used to describe something that is completely unsuccessful or a failure, often used with a negative connotation in entertainment and business.

  • The new product was a flop in the market.
  • His latest play was a huge flop, attracting no audience.
disappoint

Appropriate in scenarios where someone or something does not meet expectations, causing feelings of sadness or dissatisfaction.

  • I was disappointed when the concert was canceled.
  • The team's performance disappointed their fans.

Examples of usage

  • The new product totally bombs in the market.
  • The movie bombed at the box office.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'bomb' comes from the Latin word 'bombus', meaning 'buzzing' or 'drone', which reflects the sound an explosion makes.
  • Bombs were first used in warfare during the 12th century in East Asia, marking a significant development in military technology.
  • In World War I, aerial bombs were introduced, allowing armies to attack from the sky, changing how wars were fought.

Science

  • Explosive devices work on chemical reactions that release gas and heat quickly, causing a rapid expansion and explosion.
  • The energy produced by a bomb can be measured in tons of TNT (a common reference for explosive power).
  • Different types of bombs are designed for specific purposes, such as demolition, battlefield support, or psychological warfare.

Pop Culture

  • Bombs often appear in movies and video games, symbolizing danger or action, influencing public perception of warfare.
  • The famous phrase 'bombs away' is commonly used in films during scenes involving aircraft dropping bombs, showcasing the dramatic aspect of bomb deployment.
  • Some artists use imagery of bombs in their work to comment on war, violence, and its impact on society.

Psychology

  • The use of bombs in conflict can create a deep psychological impact on both victims and perpetrators, influencing fear and trauma.
  • Research shows that media coverage of bombings can lead to heightened feelings of anxiety and insecurity in society.
  • Symbolically, bombs can represent an explosive anger or unresolved conflict in interpersonal relationships, illustrating their metaphorical power.

Literature

  • Bomb experiences often serve as a backdrop in literary works, demonstrating the chaos and psychological effects of war on characters.
  • Authors may use bombs as a narrative device to create tension, illustrating the delicate balance between peace and violence.
  • Dystopian novels frequently feature bombs and explosions to showcase societal collapse or the consequences of war.

Origin of 'bombs'

The word 'bomb' originated in the late 17th century, borrowed from French 'bombe' or Italian 'bomba', which in turn came from Latin 'bombus' meaning 'a booming sound'. Originally used to refer to an explosive device, the term has evolved to also encompass slang meanings related to excellence or success.

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

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,610 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.