Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/bɒmˈbɑːd/

Definitions

1. To attack or assail with bombs or artillery.
2. To overwhelm or harass someone with a large amount of information or questions.
3. To strike repeatedly with a strong force or intense pressure.
4. To direct a concentrated attack on a target.

Usage Examples

1. "The enemy forces bombarded the city with artillery during the night."
2. "She bombarded him with questions during the meeting."
3. "The media bombarded the public with sensational headlines."
4. "The army was ordered to bombard the enemy's stronghold until it was destroyed."

Etymology

The word 'bombard' comes from the Old French 'bombarder' (to throw bombs), derived from 'bombarde' (a kind of cannon) and ultimately from the Latin 'bombus' (a booming sound). The term evolved from its military usage to a more figurative sense of overwhelming with information.

Synonyms

• Assault
• Attack
• Bomb
• Barage
• Overwhelm

Antonyms

• Defend
• Protect
• Shield
• Support
• Assist

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of 'bombard' can vary slightly based on regional accents. For example, in British English, the 'r' may be softer or even silent, while in American English, the 'r' is more pronounced. In certain regions, such as in South Africa, the emphasis may fall on the first syllable, while in others, it may be more evenly distributed.

Historical Usage

'Bombard' has been used since the early 15th century, originally referring to the large cannons or siege weapons used in medieval warfare. Over time, its use expanded to describe any type of intense attack, both literal (as in artillery bombardments) and figurative (as in overwhelming someone with questions or information).

Cultural Nuances

The use of 'bombard' in modern contexts has largely lost its connection to physical weapons, instead being employed metaphorically to describe situations where someone is overwhelmed, such as being 'bombarded with advertisements' or 'bombarded with requests.' In military and war-related contexts, the term retains its original sense of artillery or aerial bombardments.

More Information

'Bombard' is a term with both literal and figurative meanings. Historically, it referred to the act of using artillery, especially large cannon-like weapons known as bombards, to attack a target during warfare. These early bombards were used in siege warfare to destroy fortifications or break through defenses. Over time, the term expanded to describe any concentrated attack, including aerial bombardments during World War I and II. Today, 'bombard' is often used metaphorically to refer to overwhelming someone with a large amount of information, questions, or even emotions. The evolution of the term reflects its deep connection to both military history and contemporary culture.