Bombshell Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Pop Culture

• In the film industry, a 'bombshell' often refers to a glamorous and captivating female star known for their stunning looks.
• The term has appeared in various song lyrics, often used to describe a person who creates a stir or has a dramatic effect.
• A famous 'bombshell' event is Marilyn Monroe's iconic performance that forever changed Hollywood's perception of beauty.

Media and Journalism

• In news reporting, a bombshell story can lead to significant shifts in public opinion, often resulting in widespread discussion.
• Journalists use this term to attract readers' attention, signaling that the content will be unexpected and groundbreaking.
• High-stakes investigations often unveil 'bombshells' that result in political or social movements, showcasing the power of media.

Psychology

• Shocking news can trigger stress responses, leading to a fight-or-flight reaction in individuals when they first hear it.
• A bombshell can alter people's beliefs or attitudes, resulting in cognitive dissonance where they struggle to reconcile new information with prior understanding.
• The influence of a bombshell revelation often relies on its emotional weight, which can deeply affect societal norms and personal relationships.

Literature

• Authors frequently use bombshell moments in plots to captivate readers, creating twists that challenge characters and advance the storyline.
• In literature, a bombshell revelation often serves as a turning point that leads to character development and narrative momentum.
• Classic literature features bombshell themes where protagonists face shocking truths about themselves or others, stimulating emotional growth.

Main points about word origin

• The term originally referred to an explosive device, symbolizing a sudden impact on the audience.
• In the early 20th century, it transitioned to describe shocking news, reflecting how news can hit hard like an explosion.
• The word's popularity surged in the 1940s, especially in journalism, when major revelations would 'drop' unexpectedly.

The term 'bombshell' originated in the early 20th century, during the era of silent films. It was initially used to describe an explosive device, but later evolved to refer to an extremely attractive and glamorous woman, especially in the movie industry. Over time, the term expanded its meaning to also signify a sudden and impactful event or piece of news. Today, 'bombshell' is commonly used in both contexts to convey a sense of surprise, beauty, or power.

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

At rank #29,069, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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