detonation
UK: ˌdetəˈneɪʃn | US: ˌdetəˈneɪʃn
n. a violent explosion, especially one caused by a chemical or nuclear reaction
n. the act of detonating something
detonation = deton<explode> + ation<noun suffix>
- deton (from Latin detonare, "to thunder down," from de- (down) + tonare (to thunder))
- ation (a suffix forming nouns indicating an action or process, from Latin -atio)
Etymology Origin:
The word "detonation" traces back to Latin detonare, combining de- (indicating intensity or completion) and tonare (to thunder). Originally describing the sound of thunder, it evolved to signify a sudden, violent explosion—retaining the imagery of thunder’s abrupt force. The suffix -ation formalized it as a noun for the act or result of exploding.
The detonation of the bomb caused widespread damage.
Engineers carefully controlled the detonation sequence.
The chemical reaction led to an unexpected detonation.
The mine’s detonation echoed through the valley.
Safety protocols prevent accidental detonation.