Shrapnel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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shrapnel
[ˈʃræpnəl ]
Definition
military term
Shrapnel refers to fragments of a bomb, shell, or other explosive device that are thrown out when it detonates. It is primarily used to inflict injury or damage to people and objects in the vicinity of the explosion. The term comes from the name of Henry Shrapnel, an English artillery officer who developed a type of ammunition that contained small projectiles designed to be scattered over a wide area. Shrapnel can cause serious injuries or fatalities due to its high speed and unpredictability. It is a significant concern in combat situations, as troops must be aware of potential shrapnel injuries.
Synonyms
debris, fragment, shard, splinter.
Examples of usage
- The soldiers were warned about the dangers of shrapnel in the field.
- Shrapnel from the explosion injured several civilians.
- He had to undergo surgery due to shrapnel wounds.
- The blast radius included numerous shrapnel hazards.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
History
- During World War I, shrapnel injuries were so common that they significantly influenced medical practices and battlefield surgery.
- The use of shrapnel in warfare dates back to the 18th century, changing how battles were fought by introducing the risk of hidden dangers beyond the initial explosion.
Science
- The physics of an explosion is complex, but shrapnel is often propelled by the force of the blast, reaching high velocities and causing significant damage in its path.
- The shape and size of shrapnel can vary greatly, affecting how far it travels and the amount of damage it can cause.
Psychology
- Experiencing shrapnel injuries can lead to long-term psychological effects such as PTSD, especially for those who faced such explosions in combat situations.
- The unpredictability and terror of sudden explosions contribute to a heightened state of anxiety and fear in areas where conflict is ongoing.
Literature
- Shrapnel appears as a powerful symbol in many war novels, representing both the physical and emotional scars left by conflict.
- Authors often use shrapnel metaphorically to discuss the lingering effects of trauma, not just on soldiers, but on civilians caught in crossfire.
Origin of 'shrapnel'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the name of British General Henry Shrapnel, who invented a type of artillery shell that scattered metal balls when it exploded.
- Originally used to describe these explosive devices, the word evolved to refer generally to any flying metal debris resulting from an explosion.
The word 'shrapnel' is derived from the name of British Army officer Henry Shrapnel, who invented an explosive artillery shell in the late 18th century. The shell contained small metal balls and was designed to explode in the air or upon impact, scattering its contents over a wide area to maximize damage to enemy troops. This innovation was significant in the evolution of artillery warfare, as it marked a shift from traditional solid shot to explosive shells that caused greater devastation. The term was first recorded in military literature in the early 19th century and has since become synonymous with the destructive power of modern munitions. Today, 'shrapnel' is used in both military contexts and colloquially to refer to any debris or fragments resulting from an explosion.