Meaning & Definition of word "Detonate"

Detonate

/ˈdɛtəˌneɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to explode or cause to explode.
    • Example: The demolition team will detonate the old building at dawn.
  • 2. to cause a bomb or explosive device to explode.
    • Example: The engineer had to carefully plan when to detonate the explosives for maximum effect.
  • 3. to trigger the explosion of.
    • Example: The terrorist plotted to detonate a bomb in a crowded area.
  • 4. to explode with a loud noise.
    • Example: When the fireworks were set off, they suddenly detonated in a spectacular display.

Etymology

from Latin 'detonare', meaning 'to thunder down'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

detonate a bomb:

To set off an explosive device.

detonate with rage:

To explode emotionally with anger.

Related Words

detonation:

The action of causing something to explode.

explosion:

A violent burst of something, typically a bomb.

Slang Meanings of detonate

Meaning: To go off impulsively or suddenly.

Example Sentence: He just detonated when I mentioned the bad news.

Meaning: To react strongly in surprise or anger.

Example Sentence: When she heard the rumor, she totally detonated in the meeting.