ENGLISH
REFERENCE

napalm

n.
C1 Advanced US //ˈneɪpɑm// UK //nˈeɪpɑːm// na·palm

n. a very dangerous chemical that burns for a long time and sticks to things. It was used in wars to destroy buildings and equipment.

n. a thick, oil-based gel containing a mixture of gasoline and other flammable substances, designed to burn for an extended period and adhere to surfaces. Often used in military contexts to describe incendiary weapons.


SIMPLE

The soldiers used napalm to clear the forest of enemy troops.

CONTEXTUAL

Historians often discuss the long-term environmental impact of napalm used during the conflict in the mid-twentieth century.

COMPLEX

The documentary explores the chemical properties of napalm, explaining how its sticky consistency allowed it to cling to the ground and continue burning long after the initial explosion.

Origin

Formed from na(phthenic) palm(itic) acid, the two original components of the substance.

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