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Detonating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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detonating

[ˈdetəˌnādiNG ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

explosive

Capable of causing an explosion; explosive.

Synonyms

blasting, exploding, explosive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detonating

Suitable for describing the act of causing something to explode, often used in a technical or controlled setting.

  • The bomb squad is detonating the found explosives in a safe area.
  • Specialists are carefully detonating the old military ordinances.
explosive

Describes a substance or device that can cause an explosion, also can describe a sudden and dramatic increase or reaction.

  • They handled the explosive chemicals with extreme caution.
  • The situation at the meeting was explosive, with tempers flaring.
blasting

Typically used to describe a forceful explosion, often in construction or demolition. Can also refer to loud sounds.

  • They are blasting through the rock to build the tunnel.
  • The music was blasting from the speakers at the party.
exploding

A general term for something bursting violently due to impact or internal pressure. Can be used metaphorically for emotions or situations.

  • The fireworks were exploding in the sky during the celebration.
  • Her anger was like a time bomb exploding after days of being silent.

Examples of usage

  • The detonating bomb caused a loud explosion.
  • The detonating device was carefully handled by the bomb squad.
  • The detonating material was highly volatile.
Context #2 | Verb

triggering explosion

To cause to explode with suddenness and violence.

Synonyms

explode, set off, trigger.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detonating

Used in technical or formal contexts to describe the act of making a bomb or explosive device explode.

  • The bomb squad is responsible for safely detonating unexploded devices
trigger

Usually used to describe the action of causing a mechanism to work or initiating an event, not necessarily an explosion.

  • A faulty wire could trigger the alarm system unexpectedly
set off

Often used informally to describe initiating an explosion or causing something to start, including alarms or other events.

  • He accidentally set off the fire alarm while cooking dinner

Examples of usage

  • He detonated the bomb with a remote control.
  • They were planning to detonate the dynamite at midnight.
  • The terrorist group intended to detonate the explosives in a crowded area.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Chemical reactions that create gas quickly often result in detonating effects, such as in fireworks.
  • The speed at which a detonating substance reacts is faster than the speed of sound, leading to shock waves.
  • Detonation is a specific type of combustion that produces a violent explosion, distinct from deflagration, which is slower and less powerful.

Safety and Law

  • Understanding the mechanics of detonating is crucial for safety in industries such as construction and mining.
  • Regulations often govern the use of explosives to ensure public safety, requiring special permits for detonating substances.
  • In criminal contexts, the illegal ownership or use of detonating devices can lead to severe legal consequences.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, scenes involving bomb detonation often symbolize high-stakes drama or turning points in the plot.
  • Video games frequently feature detonating devices as part of action sequences, allowing players to engage in simulated explosions.
  • The phrase 'detonating a bomb' has become a metaphor in popular culture, used to describe making impactful statements or decisions.

Technology

  • Modern technology has led to the development of controlled detonating devices for uses in demolition.
  • The field of demolitions relies on precise calculations to ensure that buildings collapse safely through controlled detonations.
  • Advancements in detonating materials have resulted in more environmentally friendly options that reduce harmful byproducts.

Origin of 'detonating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin root 'detonare', meaning 'to thunder down', which suggests a powerful sound.
  • In the late 19th century, the term began being used in English to describe explosives and their action.
  • Initially, 'detonate' referred to explosives but later expanded to include any explosive-like release of energy.

The word 'detonating' is derived from the Latin word 'detonare', meaning 'to thunder down'. It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century. The concept of detonation has been used in various forms throughout history, with the development of explosives and controlled explosions. The modern usage of 'detonating' typically refers to something that is capable of causing an explosion or triggering an explosive reaction.

See also: detonation, detonations, detonator.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,107, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.