Warheads Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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warheads

[ˈwɔːrhɛdz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sour candy

Warheads are a popular brand of sour candy that are known for their extreme sourness. These small, colorful candies are coated in a sour powder that creates an intense sour flavor when eaten. They are often enjoyed by people who like sour treats.

Examples of usage

  • His face puckered up after eating a Warhead.
  • She challenged her friends to see who could handle the sourness of a Warhead.
Context #2 | Noun

military weapons

Warheads are explosive devices designed to be launched from military weapons such as missiles or rockets. They are used in warfare to cause destruction and damage to enemy targets. Warheads can vary in size and explosive power, ranging from small tactical warheads to large strategic warheads.

Examples of usage

  • The missile was armed with a warhead capable of destroying a bunker.
  • The country's nuclear arsenal includes warheads with devastating power.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science and Technology

  • Warheads can be nuclear, chemical, or conventional, each designed for different types of destruction.
  • Nuclear warheads release energy through nuclear reactions, causing massive explosions.
  • Tech advancements have led to more precise targeting systems, increasing the effectiveness of warheads.

History

  • The development of warheads changed the nature of warfare, particularly during World War II with the advent of atomic bombs.
  • The Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 highlighted the dangers of nuclear warheads and their role in international tensions.
  • Various treaties, like the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty, were created to limit the number of nuclear warheads globally.

Psychology

  • The existence of warheads contributes to a phenomenon known as 'nuclear deterrence', where countries avoid direct conflict due to the fear of retaliation.
  • Public awareness of warheads often leads to anxiety and fear surrounding global security.
  • Studies show that the threat of warheads can shape political rhetoric and influence national policies.

Pop Culture

  • Warheads frequently appear in films and video games, often symbolizing the ultimate destructive power in conflicts.
  • Movies like 'Dr. Strangelove' and 'Fail-Safe' critically explore the implications of nuclear weapons and warheads.
  • 'Warhead' often features in comic books and graphic novels, portraying characters that wield such destructive power.

Origin of 'warheads'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'war', meaning conflict, and 'head', suggesting the front or leading part of a weapon.
  • It has roots in military terminology, evolving as technology advanced in weaponry.
  • The term began to be used more frequently during the mid-20th century, coinciding with the Cold War.

The term 'warheads' originated in the context of military weapons, referring to the explosive part of a missile or rocket. Over time, the term has also become associated with a brand of sour candy known for its extreme sourness. The dual meaning of 'warheads' reflects the contrast between destructive military power and playful sour treats.


See also: war, warble, warfare, warhead, warily, warlike, warlock, warmonger, warmongering, warplane, warrior, warship, wary.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,242, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.