dumb bomb
Definition
Noun: A type of unguided aerial bomb that follows a ballistic trajectory determined solely by gravity after being released from an aircraft. It lacks any internal guidance system to steer it toward a target.
Usage
A "dumb bomb" is a conventional, unguided munition. Its accuracy depends entirely on the skill of the pilot or bombardier, the release conditions (altitude, speed), and environmental factors like wind. It contrasts directly with precision-guided munitions ("smart bombs").
Examples
- The older aircraft could only carry dumb bombs, making precision strikes difficult.
- Despite the prevalence of smart weapons, many air forces still maintain stocks of dumb bombs for certain missions.
- Dropping a dumb bomb accurately requires extensive training and calculation.
Advanced Usage
- "Dumb bomb" vs. "Smart bomb": This is the most common usage, highlighting the technological dichotomy in aerial warfare. "Dumb" refers to the lack of intelligence/guidance.
- Colloquial Metaphor: Informally, the term can be used metaphorically to describe an action or plan that is crude, unsubtle, and lacks precision or control.
- Example: The new marketing campaign was a dumb bomb—it reached everyone but offended most of our customers.
Variants and Related Words
- Unguided bomb: A more formal, technical synonym.
- Gravity bomb: Another synonym emphasizing the role of gravity in its delivery.
- Iron bomb: A colloquial synonym, referencing the bomb's simple, un-aerodynamic metal casing.
- Free-fall bomb: A descriptive term for its flight path.
Synonyms
- Unguided bomb
- Gravity bomb
- Iron bomb (informal)
- Free-fall bomb
Antonyms
- Smart bomb
- Precision-guided munition (PGM)
- Guided bomb
Noun
-
a bomb that falls because of gravity and is not guided to a target
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