explosive

ex-plo-sive · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Capable of exploding or likely to explode.

  2. 2.

    Tending to erupt violently; volatile in temperament.

  3. 3.

    Happening suddenly and dramatically.

  4. 4.

    A substance capable of causing an explosion.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Explosive device — A bomb or similar weapon.
  • •
    Explosive growth — Very rapid expansion.

Related words

Antonyms: calm, inert, stable
See also: explode, explosion, explosives
Synonyms: detonating, fiery, unstable, volatile

Etymology

From Latin explodere meaning "to drive out by clapping" + -ive.