Molotov cocktail
Definition
Noun: A simple, improvised explosive device. It consists of a glass bottle filled with a flammable liquid (like gasoline or alcohol). A cloth rag, acting as a wick, is stuffed into the bottle's neck. The wick is lit just before the bottle is thrown, causing it to shatter and ignite upon impact, creating a fireball.
Usage
This term specifically refers to the improvised weapon. It is used in contexts discussing warfare, protests, riots, or guerrilla tactics. - The demonstrators used molotov cocktails against the armored vehicle. - Soldiers were trained to identify and avoid molotov cocktail attacks.
Advanced Usage
- Historical Context: The name originates from World War II, sarcastically named after Vyacheslav Molotov, the Soviet foreign minister. They were notably used by Finnish forces against Soviet tanks.
- As a Symbol: The term can symbolize desperate, grassroots resistance due to its simple, homemade nature.
Variants and Related Words
- Petrol bomb: A common synonym, especially in British English.
- Incendiary device: A broader, more formal term for any weapon designed to start fires.
- Improvised explosive device (IED): A wider category of homemade bombs that includes molotov cocktails.
Synonyms
- Petrol bomb
- Firebomb (in a general sense)
- Incendiary bottle
Related Phrases/Idioms
No common idioms or phrasal verbs incorporate this specific term. It is used literally.
Noun
-
a crude incendiary bomb made of a bottle filled with flammable liquid and fitted with a rag wick
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