explosion
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a sudden, violent burst of energy, often caused by a bomb or gas, that breaks things apart.
a violent and destructive release of energy, typically resulting from a chemical, nuclear, or mechanical reaction.
Simple“The explosion was so strong that it broke all the windows in the street.”
In context“The accidental gas explosion levelled the warehouse, leaving investigators to sift through the debris for clues regarding the ignition source.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
the very loud sound made when something bursts or blows up.
the sudden, loud acoustic manifestation of a violent release of energy.
Simple“We heard a loud explosion in the distance and ran to the window.”
In context“A sudden explosion echoed through the valley, startling the hikers who were miles away from the construction site.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a sudden and very quick increase in the amount or number of something.
a sudden, rapid, and often uncontrolled increase or expansion in number, scale, or intensity.
Simple“There has been an explosion in the number of people using smartphones lately.”
In context“The late twentieth century witnessed a population explosion in urban centres, placing unprecedented strain on existing infrastructure and housing markets.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
a sudden, strong show of a feeling like anger or laughter.
a sudden and intense emotional outburst, typically of anger, laughter, or enthusiasm.
Simple“His joke caused an explosion of laughter from everyone in the room.”
In context“The manager's sudden explosion of temper caught the staff off guard, as he was usually known for his calm and professional demeanour.”
Antonyms
From French explosion, from Latin explōsiōnis, genitive form of explōsio, from explōdo (“to drive out by clapping”), from ex- and plōdo (“to clap or strike”). For more information see explode.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.