Dumdum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ซ
dumdum
[หdสmหdสm ]
Definition
ammunition type
Dumdum refers to a type of expanding bullet designed to cause extensive damage to the target upon impact. Originally developed in the late 19th century in the Dum Dum Arsenal in India, these bullets are characterized by a hollow point design that allows them to expand upon hitting soft tissue. This design maximizes damage and lethality, making them controversial and widely restricted or banned under various international laws of warfare. While dumdum bullets can be used for hunting purposes, their application in military conflicts raises significant ethical concerns.
Synonyms
expanding bullet, hollow-point bullet, soft point bullet.
Examples of usage
- The soldier was warned about the use of dumdum bullets.
- Dumdum bullets are illegal in many countries.
- Hunters sometimes prefer dumdum bullets for their effectiveness.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In movies and TV shows, 'dumdum' often appears in comedic contexts, highlighting characters who are not very bright.
- A famous comic book character known as 'Dum-Dum Dugan' is an ally of Captain America, showcasing that the term can have both silly and heroic connotations.
Psychology
- Using playful or silly names like 'dumdum' can soften criticism, helping people feel less defensive when receiving feedback.
- Labeling foolish behavior with light-hearted terms can facilitate discussions around mistakes without shaming.
Literature
- The word 'dumdum' has appeared in childrenโs literature as a playful term, teaching kids about fun language.
- Authors sometimes use the term to depict foolish characters, making the narrative more relatable and humorous.
Origin of 'dumdum'
Main points about word origin
- The term likely comes from the sound people make when saying 'dumb' in a playful or teasing way.
- In the 19th century, it became associated with bullets that expanded on impact, named 'dumdum' after the Dum Dum Arsenal in India where they were made.
The term 'dumdum' originates from the Dum Dum Arsenal, a British military armory located near Kolkata, India, where these bullets were first manufactured in the 1890s. The initial purpose for the design was to create a more effective bullet for use in colonial warfare. The hollow point design was intended to increase stopping power against game animals, thus improving the effectiveness of the rounds used by soldiers deployed in various regions. Over the years, the term has evolved to encompass any expanding ammunition, which has garnered a notorious reputation due to its potential for causing excessive harm to human targets. Humanitarian and ethical debates surrounding the use of dumdum bullets continue, especially in contexts of armed conflict and civilian safety.