explosive
explosive
(ɪksploʊsɪv )Word forms: plural explosives
1. variable noun
An explosive is a substance or device that can cause an explosion.
...one-hundred-and-fifty pounds of Semtex explosive.
There were traces of explosives in the bedroom.
2. adjective
Something that is explosive is capable of causing an explosion.
The explosive device was timed to go off at the rush hour.
Highly explosive gas is naturally found in coal mines.
explosively adverb [ADVERB adjective, ADVERB after verb]
Hydrogen is explosively flammable when mixed with oxygen.
3. adjective
The explosive growth in casinos is one of the most conspicuous signs of Westernisation.
explosively adverb [ADVERB after verb, ADVERB adjective]
These transactions grew explosively in the early 1980s.
4. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun]
He appeared to be treating the potentially explosive situation with some sensitivity.
Nobody knows what explosive arguments the future of Europe will bring.
explosively adverb [ADVERB after verb]
A referendum next year would coincide explosively with the election campaign.
5. adjective
She was unpredictable, explosive, impulsive and easily distracted.
He's inherited his father's explosive temper.
explosively adverb [ADVERB after verb, ADVERB adjective]
'Are you mad?' David asked explosively.
6. adjective
He made a loud, explosive noise of disgust.
...an explosive drumbeat.
explosively adverb [ADVERB adjective, ADVERB after verb]
The sound of her own chewing and swallowing were explosively loud.
