grenade

UK: ɡrəˈneɪd | US: ɡrəˈneɪd

Definition

  1. n. a small explosive weapon thrown by hand or launched mechanically

  2. n. (historical) a pomegranate (archaic usage)

Structure
gren <pomegranate>ade <noun suffix>gren <from Old French "grenate" (pomegranate), derived from Latin "granatum" (seeded), referencing the fruit's resemblance to early explosive devices in shape and scattered seeds/shrapnel>ade <a noun-forming suffix of French origin, often indicating a derivative or result>
Etymology

The word "grenade" originally referred to pomegranates in Middle French due to their seeded interior. In the 16th century, early explosive devices—filled with shrapnel resembling pomegranate seeds—adopted the name for their visual similarity. The spelling later standardized to "grenade" in English, shedding its botanical meaning entirely for the weapon.

Examples

  1. The soldier pulled the pin and threw the grenade into the enemy trench.

  2. Modern grenades are designed to fragment upon explosion.

  3. In medieval texts, "grenade" sometimes denoted the fruit rather than a weapon.

  4. Training with dummy grenades is essential for military recruits.

  5. The grenade's explosion echoed through the narrow valley.