Definition

Noun: 1. An antipersonnel land mine: A specific type of explosive device designed to be triggered by pressure or a tripwire. Upon activation, it propels itself a short distance into the air (typically waist-high) before detonating, maximizing shrapnel dispersal and injury to personnel over a wider area than a ground-based explosion.

Usage

• The term is used specifically in military and historical contexts to describe this particular class of weapon.
• It functions as a compound noun. The name "Bouncing Betty" is a colloquial, often American, military slang term.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term is often capitalized as "Bouncing Betty" when referring to it as a specific, named type of device, similar to a brand or model name in a military context.
• It can be used metaphorically to describe a situation or problem that suddenly escalates or "pops up" with dangerous consequences.
  • The political scandal turned into a real bouncing betty for the administration, causing widespread damage.

Variants and Related Words

• Bounding mine: The more formal, technical term for this type of antipersonnel mine.
• AP mine: Abbreviation for "antipersonnel mine," the general category.
• Land mine: The broad category of explosive devices placed on or under the ground.

Synonyms

• Bounding mine (technical synonym)
• Antipersonnel mine (general category)
• Booby trap (broader term for concealed explosive devices)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Like a bouncing betty": Used informally to describe something that erupts or becomes active in a sudden, violent, and unexpected manner.
  • His temper went off like a bouncing betty when he heard the news.

Noun

1. an antipersonnel land mine