warhead
UK: ˈwɔːhɛd | US: ˈwɔːrhɛd
n. the explosive part of a missile, torpedo, or similar weapon
The word "warhead" combines "war" (from Old English wyrre, meaning "armed conflict") and "head" (from Old English hēafod, meaning "top or front part"). The term emerged in the early 20th century to describe the explosive front section of a missile or torpedo, metaphorically likening it to the "head" of a weapon designed for warfare. The logic is straightforward: the "head" carries the destructive payload, just as the head leads the body.
The missile's warhead detonated upon impact.
Engineers are testing a new type of nuclear warhead.
The submarine launched a torpedo with a 500-pound warhead.
Disarming the warhead required precise expertise.
The treaty aimed to reduce the number of ballistic missile warheads.