Word
warhead
Phoneticswar·head, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈwɔɹˌhɛd/
UK/wˈɔːhɛd/
Countable noun
Definition
n. the front part of a missile or rocket that carries the explosives. It is the part of the weapon that actually blows up when it hits a target.
n. the explosive section of a missile, rocket, or torpedo, containing the payload and detonator. Often distinguished from the propulsion system and guidance mechanism.
Examples
“The missile was fitted with a conventional warhead.”
“Engineers worked to ensure the warhead would remain stable during the high-speed flight toward the testing range.”
“International treaties often focus on limiting the number of active nuclear warheads a nation can maintain in its arsenal to prevent global escalation.”
Examples
simple
“The missile was fitted with a conventional warhead.”
contextual
“Engineers worked to ensure the warhead would remain stable during the high-speed flight toward the testing range.”
complex
“International treaties often focus on limiting the number of active nuclear warheads a nation can maintain in its arsenal to prevent global escalation.”
Usage
Commonly used in military and geopolitical contexts; often paired with 'nuclear' or 'conventional'.
Real-World Examples
“But eventually an ominous buzz reveals its nature: a swarm of dozens upon dozens of small but deadly kamikaze drones, each armed with a lethal warhead and sensors.” Etymology
From war + head, originally to distinguish a live war head of a torpedo from an inert exercise head. Piecewise doublet of war chief.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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