bomb

bomb · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An explosive weapon designed to detonate under specified conditions.

  2. 2.

    To attack with bombs; to drop bombs on.

  3. 3.

    [informal, British]A large sum of money.

  4. 4.

    [informal]To fail badly.

  5. 5.

    [informal]To move very quickly.

  6. 6.

    [informal, North American]A complete failure, especially of a performance or product.

  7. 7.

    [informal]Something outstanding or excellent.

Forms

plural: bombs

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    drop a bomb/bombshell — to reveal shocking news
  • •
    the bomb — something excellent (slang)
  • •
    cost a bomb — to be very expensive (British)
  • •
    go like a bomb — to go very fast or be very successful (British)

Related words

See also: bombing, explosive, grenade, missile
Synonyms: explosive, mine, shell

Etymology

From French bombe, from Italian bomba, from Latin bombus ("a buzzing, humming sound"), from Greek bombos ("deep, hollow sound"). The word is onomatopoeic in origin.