atom bomb
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A nuclear weapon that derives its destructive force from the fission (splitting) of atomic nuclei: An "atom bomb" is an explosive device whose immense energy release comes from the nuclear fission of heavy elements such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239. It is also commonly called an atomic bomb or A-bomb.
Usage and Examples
- As a subject:
- As an object:
- With modifiers:
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: The term is most frequently associated with the bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II.
- The deployment of the atom bomb led to Japan's surrender.
- Figurative Use: The term can be used metaphorically to describe something with sudden, immense, and devastating impact.
- The CEO's resignation was an atom bomb that shook the entire company.
Variants and Related Words
- Atomic bomb (n.): A full, synonymous term for "atom bomb."
- A-bomb (n.): An informal abbreviation.
- Fission bomb (n.): A more technical term describing the same weapon type, emphasizing the nuclear fission process.
- Nuclear weapon (n.): The broader category of weapons that includes atom bombs (fission-based) and hydrogen bombs (fusion-based).
Synonyms
- Nuclear bomb: A general synonym, though it can also refer to fusion-based weapons.
- Fission device: A precise, technical synonym.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To drop the atom bomb: Literally, to deploy such a weapon from an aircraft. Figuratively, to reveal shocking or devastating news.
- During the meeting, she dropped the atom bomb by announcing massive layoffs.
Noun
- a nuclear weapon in which enormous energy is released by nuclear fission (splitting the nuclei of a heavy element like uranium 235 or plutonium 239)