Minefield: meaning, definitions and examples
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minefield
[ ˈmaɪnˌfiːld ]
military, danger
A minefield is an area that is planted with explosive mines, typically used in military operations to impede enemy movement. These areas can be extremely dangerous and are often marked to warn individuals of the risks. Mines can remain active for many years and pose a significant threat to both military personnel and civilians. In addition to the immediate danger, minefields can hinder post-conflict recovery and land use.
Synonyms
booby trap, danger zone, explosive field
Examples of usage
- The soldiers were cautious as they approached the minefield.
- Clearing a minefield is a challenging and dangerous task.
- She avoided the minefield while navigating the battlefield.
Translations
Translations of the word "minefield" in other languages:
🇵🇹 campo minado
🇮🇳 माइनफील्ड
🇩🇪 Minenfeld
🇮🇩 ladang ranjau
🇺🇦 мінне поле
🇵🇱 pole minowe
🇯🇵 地雷原
🇫🇷 champ de mines
🇪🇸 campo de minas
🇹🇷 mayın tarlası
🇰🇷 지뢰밭
🇸🇦 حقل الألغام
🇨🇿 minové pole
🇸🇰 minové pole
🇨🇳 雷区
🇸🇮 minsko polje
🇮🇸 mínusvæði
🇰🇿 мина алаңы
🇬🇪 საფანტო მინდორი
🇦🇿 mədən sahəsi
🇲🇽 campo de minas
Etymology
The term 'minefield' originated from the military use of 'mine', which itself comes from the Latin word 'mina', meaning a pit or shaft for extracting minerals. The concept of a mine as an explosive weapon was developed in warfare, particularly in the early modern period. 'Field' in this context refers to an area of land designated for a particular purpose. The combined term began to be used to describe areas laid with land mines during the 20th century, especially during World War I and II, where both sides utilized them to protect their positions and restrict enemy movement. Over time, 'minefield' has also taken on a metaphorical meaning in various contexts, referring to complex situations fraught with hidden dangers.