explosives
|ex-plo-sives|
B2
🇺🇸
/ɪkˈsploʊsɪvz/
🇬🇧
/ɪkˈspləʊsɪvz/
(explosive)
capable of causing an explosion
Etymology
Etymology Information
'explosive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'explosivus,' where 'ex-' meant 'out' and 'plaudere' meant 'to clap or strike.'
Historical Evolution
'explosivus' transformed into the French word 'explosif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'explosive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to clap or strike out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'capable of causing an explosion.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
substances or devices that can cause explosions.
The demolition team used explosives to bring down the old building.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/02/03 14:01