Bazooka

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/bəˈzuːkə/

Definitions

1. A portable, handheld anti-tank rocket launcher, used in military combat to fire rockets at enemy tanks or fortifications.

2. A slang term for something that is very powerful, often used metaphorically to describe a person, action, or event with intense or overwhelming force.

Usage Examples

• "The soldiers used the bazooka to destroy the enemy's armored vehicle."
• "Her performance in the game was a real bazooka, scoring the winning goal."
• "He came at the problem with a bazooka of ideas, ready to tackle it head-on."

Etymology

The word "bazooka" originated in the United States during World War II. It is believed to have been coined by American comedian Bob Burns, who used a homemade musical instrument resembling a large bazooka in his act. The military adopted the term to describe a new weapon developed during the war: a portable rocket launcher designed to destroy tanks and other fortifications. The word "bazooka" quickly became synonymous with this powerful weapon.

Synonyms

• Rocket launcher
• Anti-tank weapon
• RPG (Rocket-Propelled Grenade)
• Missile launcher

Antonyms

• Shield
• Defensive weapon
• Protection

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• Standard American English: /bəˈzuːkə/
• British English: /bəˈzuːkə/ (similar)
• Spanish-speaking regions: /baˈθuka/

Historical Usage

The term "bazooka" became popular during World War II when it was used to describe a new, lightweight, and portable anti-tank weapon. The weapon was developed by the U.S. Army and was designed to provide infantry with a tool to fight against armored vehicles. The name of the weapon, as well as its slang meaning, has persisted through popular culture, often used metaphorically to describe anything powerful or overwhelming.

Cultural Nuances

While the term "bazooka" originally referred to a military weapon, it has since become widely used in popular culture. In many contexts, it refers not only to the weapon but to anything powerful or capable of delivering a strong impact. For example, in sports, someone might refer to a powerful shot as a "bazooka." It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone's energetic or forceful behavior.

More Information

The bazooka remains an iconic symbol of World War II and continues to appear in various forms in military, films, and video games. The word has transcended its original meaning, becoming part of everyday language when describing any powerful object, action, or event. Though it is no longer in active use as a military weapon, the term "bazooka" endures as a symbol of explosive force, both literally and figuratively.