Part of Speech

Noun, Verb

Pronunciation

/bɒm/

Definitions

• Noun: A device designed to explode upon activation, often used in warfare or as a terror weapon.
• Noun: A metaphorical term for something that fails or causes significant damage, e.g., a "box office bomb" or a "bombed performance."
• Verb: To attack or destroy with bombs; to fail badly (in a performance or event).

Usage Examples

• "The bomb exploded, causing widespread damage to the city."
• "The movie bombed at the box office, failing to attract an audience."
• "The military forces bombed the enemy’s position to weaken their defense."

Etymology

The word "bomb" comes from the Latin word "bombus," meaning a booming or humming sound, referring to the noise made by an exploding device. The term was adopted in the 17th century to describe explosive devices. Its use expanded to describe any device that could explode, particularly those used in warfare.

Synonyms

• Explosive
• Shell
• Projectile
• Missile

Antonyms

• Peace
• Safety
• Defuse
• Tranquility

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of the word "bomb" is generally consistent across English-speaking regions, but non-native English speakers may pronounce it with variations based on their linguistic background.

Historical Usage

The term "bomb" was first used in the 16th century to describe explosive devices used in warfare. Over time, it expanded to include various types of explosives used in military, industrial, and criminal applications. The development of bombs during the two World Wars revolutionized military tactics and contributed to the global arms race.

Cultural Nuances

In popular culture, "bomb" can also refer to a failure, particularly in the context of movies or performances ("the film bombed"). This metaphorical use reflects the destructive impact of a failure in terms of public reception and expectations.

More Information

The bomb, in its original military sense, has been a tool of destruction for centuries. Its development was accelerated during the World Wars, and it has continued to evolve, with modern bombs being more sophisticated and capable of greater destruction. Bombs have been used not only in warfare but also in terror attacks and as a method of political protest. Despite their devastating effects, efforts to ban or limit their use have been met with varying degrees of success in international law and policy.