Meaning & Definition of word "Detonate"
to
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.