claymore mine
Noun: 1. A directional anti-personnel mine: A type of explosive device designed to be command-detonated or triggered by a tripwire. It propels a fan-shaped pattern of metal balls or fragments in a specific, aimed direction toward enemy personnel.
The term "claymore mine" is used specifically to refer to this type of directional explosive weapon. It is a compound noun where "claymore" specifies the model or type of mine. * Soldiers carefully emplaced the claymore mine to cover the likely enemy approach. * The claymore mine is designed for defensive perimeter security.
- "To emplace a claymore mine": To position and set up the mine for firing.
- The squad leader ordered them to emplace claymore mines along the trail.
- "To command-detonate a claymore mine": To trigger the explosion by an electrical signal from a remote operator.
- They waited until the enemy was in the kill zone before choosing to command-detonate the claymore mine.
- M18A1 Claymore: The formal military designation for the common US model of this mine.
- Directional mine: A broader, more technical term for this category of weapon.
- Anti-personnel mine (AP mine): The general class of mines designed to injure or kill people, which includes the claymore type.
- Directional anti-personnel mine (technical synonym)
The "claymore mine" is distinct from general land mines that explode downward or omnidirectionally. Its key characteristic is its directional blast, which is aimed at "the oncoming enemy," as noted in the reference definition. It is not typically buried but is mounted on a stand or fixed to an object. The name "Claymore" is derived from a type of Scottish broadsword.
- an antipersonnel land mine whose blast is aimed at the oncoming enemy