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Munitions Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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munitions

[mjuˈnɪʃənz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

weapons

Military weapons, ammunition, equipment, and supplies used to wage war or carry out military operations.

Synonyms

ammunition, arms, ordnance, weapons.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
munitions

Used when referring to military weapons, ammunition, and equipment collectively. Often applied in formal or technical contexts relating to logistics or supply chains.

  • The factory was repurposed to produce munitions during the war.
  • The convoy was transporting munitions to the front lines.
ammunition

Specifically refers to bullets, shells, missiles, and other projectiles. Commonly used in both military and civilian contexts, such as hunting or shooting sports.

  • We must conserve our ammunition, we can't afford to run out.
  • He bought a new rifle and a box of ammunition for hunting.
arms

Broad term generally used to refer to weapons, especially firearms. Often employed in discussions about armament, armories, and disarmament.

  • The government is considering stronger control over the sale of arms.
  • The rebels were well armed with a variety of arms and explosives.
ordnance

Refers to military weapons, ammunition, and equipment, typically heavy artillery and explosives. Often used in official or formal military contexts.

  • The ordnance experts were called in to defuse the bomb.
  • The army's ordnance depot was well stocked with heavy artillery.
weapons

General term for anything that can be used to inflict harm or damage. Used broadly in both military and civilian contexts, including discussions about self-defense, combat, and law enforcement.

  • Carrying weapons without a license is illegal in many states.
  • The soldiers were equipped with weapons and protective gear.

Examples of usage

  • Military forces stockpiled munitions in preparation for the upcoming conflict.
  • The soldiers loaded the munitions onto the transport vehicles.
  • The munitions factory produced a large quantity of ammunition for the army.
  • The munitions depot stored various types of weapons and explosives.
  • The supply of munitions was running low, causing concern among the troops.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • During World War I, the demand for munitions skyrocketed, leading to the establishment of factories solely for their production.
  • The U.S. Munitions Act of 1938 restricted sales of arms and munitions to foreign countries to maintain neutrality before World War II.
  • In many cultures, the regulation and control of munitions have been central to discussions about peace and security.

Pop Culture

  • Movies about war often depict dramatic scenes that revolve around the use and impact of munitions, showcasing their destructive power.
  • Video games in the military genre frequently include realistic portrayals of munitions, allowing players to engage in strategy around their use.
  • Literature often explores the psychological and societal effects of munitions, giving a deeper context to their impact on humanity.

Science and Technology

  • The development of munitions has significantly influenced advancements in chemistry and engineering, particularly in explosive materials.
  • Modern munitions often incorporate precision guidance systems, representing a shift towards enhancing accuracy and reducing collateral damage.
  • Research in improving safety protocols around munitions has led to innovations that lessen accidents during storage and handling.

Global Policies

  • International treaties, like the Arms Trade Treaty enacted in 2014, aim to regulate the global trade of munitions to promote peace.
  • Different countries have varying laws regarding the manufacture, sale, and usage of munitions, often tied to their military policies.
  • The debate over gun control and civilian access to munitions is ongoing in many countries, reflecting diverse cultural perspectives on safety and freedom.

Origin of 'munitions'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'munitions' comes from the Latin word 'munitio', meaning 'fortification' or 'defense'.
  • It originally described the act of fortifying or defending a place, later shifting to weapons and ammunition.
  • The term began to be popularly used in English during the late 15th century as warfare became more advanced.

The word 'munitions' originated in the early 17th century from the French word 'munition', meaning 'provision or equipment'. It was initially used to refer to military supplies and equipment necessary for warfare. Over time, 'munitions' came to specifically denote weapons, ammunition, and related military equipment. The term has been widely used in military contexts to describe the arsenal of weapons and supplies needed for armed conflicts.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,667, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.