Explosive: meaning, definitions and examples

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explosive

[ ɪkˈspləʊsɪv ]

^{Context #1}

in a dangerous or violent manner

Capable of causing an explosion; highly unstable or volatile.

Synonyms

dangerous, unstable, volatile

Examples of usage

The situation became more explosive as tensions rose between the two countries.
The explosive device was diffused by the bomb squad.

^{Context #2}

a substance that can cause an explosion

A substance that is capable of causing an explosion, such as dynamite or TNT.

Synonyms

TNT, bomb, dynamite

Examples of usage

The military used explosives to destroy the enemy's bunker.
The terrorist group planted several explosives in the city.

Translations

Translations of the word "explosive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 explosivo

🇮🇳 विस्फोटक

🇩🇪 explosiv

🇮🇩 peledak

🇺🇦 вибухівка

🇵🇱 wybuchowy

🇯🇵 爆発物

🇫🇷 explosif

🇪🇸 explosivo

🇹🇷 patlayıcı

🇰🇷 폭발물

🇸🇦 متفجرات

🇨🇿 výbušnina

🇸🇰 výbušnina

🇨🇳 炸药

🇸🇮 eksploziv

🇮🇸 sprengiefni

🇰🇿 жарылғыш

🇬🇪 აფეთქებადი

🇦🇿 partlayıcı

🇲🇽 explosivo

Word origin

The word 'explosive' originated in the late 17th century, derived from the French word 'explosif', which is based on the Latin word 'explosivus', meaning 'driving off by clapping'. The use of explosives has been crucial in various fields such as mining, construction, and warfare, but also poses significant risks if mishandled.

See also: explode, exploding, explosion.