patard

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small explosive device: "patard" (also spelled "petard") refers to a small bomb or explosive charge used historically to breach gates, walls, or barriers, especially in military contexts.
   • A firework: In some usages, "patard" can denote a type of firework or explosive device used for display or effect.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The soldiers planted a patard against the wooden gate to blow it open. (A small explosive charge used in a siege.)
  • During the celebration, the crowd watched a patard explode in the night sky. (A firework used for entertainment.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be hoist with one's own petard": a figurative idiom meaning to be caught by one's own scheme or to suffer from one's own actions intended to harm others.
  • The corrupt official was hoist with his own petard when his bribery scheme was exposed. (He fell victim to his own plan.)

Variants and Related Words

• Petard (n): a common alternate spelling of "patard"; refers to the same explosive device.
  • The engineer carefully placed the petard at the base of the wall. (The explosive charge.)
• Petardier (n): a person who handles or operates a petard.
  • The petardier lit the fuse and ran for cover. (The explosive expert.)

Synonyms

• Bomb: a general term for an explosive device.
• Charge: a measured amount of explosive material.
• Mine: a explosive device placed underground or in a concealed location.

Related Idioms

• Hoist by/with one's own petard: a fixed expression meaning to be harmed by one's own plan to harm others.
  • The hacker was hoist by his own petard when his virus infected his own computer. (He fell into his own trap.)