Definition

1. Noun:
   • A concealed explosive device designed to detonate at a specific time or under specific circumstances: An "infernal machine" is a type of bomb or explosive device that is hidden and equipped with a timing or triggering mechanism. It is often intended to function as a trap or to cause destruction at a predetermined moment.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The police discovered an infernal machine hidden in a suitcase at the train station.
  • Historical accounts describe anarchists using infernal machines to target public figures.

Advanced Usage

• The term "infernal machine" is often used in historical or literary contexts to describe malicious, hidden explosive devices, emphasizing their treacherous or diabolical nature. It is less common in modern technical bomb disposal language, where terms like "improvised explosive device (IED)" or "time bomb" are more frequent.
  • The novel's plot revolved around an infernal machine set to destroy the parliament building.

Variants and Related Words

• Time bomb (n): A bomb designed to explode at a preset time.
  • The time bomb was defused just minutes before it was set to go off.
• Booby trap (n): A concealed explosive device designed to be triggered by an unsuspecting victim.
  • Soldiers were trained to identify and avoid booby traps.

Synonyms

• Time bomb: An explosive device with a timing mechanism.
• Explosive device: A general term for any apparatus designed to explode.

Related Phrases

• While "infernal machine" itself is not typically part of a phrasal verb, it is a fixed noun phrase. Related concepts include:
  • To plant an infernal machine: To secretly place such a device.

    • The conspirators planned to plant an infernal machine near the bridge.

Related Idioms

• No common idioms directly incorporate the phrase "infernal machine". The term itself carries a dramatic, almost archaic connotation of a sinister, hidden danger.

Noun

1. a bomb that has a detonating mechanism that can be set to go off at a particular time