Definition

Noun: 1. A nuclear weapon that derives its destructive force from the fission (splitting) of atomic nuclei: An "atom bomb" is an explosive device whose immense energy release comes from the nuclear fission of heavy elements such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239. It is also commonly called an atomic bomb or A-bomb.

Usage and Examples

• As a subject:
• As an object:
• With modifiers:

Advanced Usage

• Historical Context: The term is most frequently associated with the bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in World War II.
  • The deployment of the atom bomb led to Japan's surrender.
• Figurative Use: The term can be used metaphorically to describe something with sudden, immense, and devastating impact.
  • The CEO's resignation was an atom bomb that shook the entire company.

Variants and Related Words

• Atomic bomb (n.): A full, synonymous term for "atom bomb."
• A-bomb (n.): An informal abbreviation.
• Fission bomb (n.): A more technical term describing the same weapon type, emphasizing the nuclear fission process.
• Nuclear weapon (n.): The broader category of weapons that includes atom bombs (fission-based) and hydrogen bombs (fusion-based).

Synonyms

• Nuclear bomb: A general synonym, though it can also refer to fusion-based weapons.
• Fission device: A precise, technical synonym.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To drop the atom bomb: Literally, to deploy such a weapon from an aircraft. Figuratively, to reveal shocking or devastating news.
  • During the meeting, she dropped the atom bomb by announcing massive layoffs.

Noun

1. a nuclear weapon in which enormous energy is released by nuclear fission (splitting the nuclei of a heavy element like uranium 235 or plutonium 239)