shrapnel

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Explanation of "Shrapnel"

Definition: "Shrapnel" is a noun that refers to small metal pieces or fragments that are released when a shell (a type of explosive weapon) explodes. These pieces can cause injury to people or damage to objects nearby. The term comes from the name of a British soldier, General Henry Shrapnel, who invented a type of artillery shell that spread small balls of lead when it exploded.

Usage Instructions:

• Part of Speech: Noun
• Pronunciation: /ˈʃræp.nəl/

Example Sentences:

1. During the war, the explosion sent shrapnel flying through the air, injuring several soldiers.
2. The old building was damaged by shrapnel from the nearby explosion.

Advanced Usage:

In a more general context, "shrapnel" can also refer to any small, sharp pieces that can cause harm. For example, you might hear someone say, "There were pieces of shrapnel from the broken glass all over the floor."

Word Variants:

• Shrapnelled (verb): The action of someone being affected by shrapnel.
  • Example: "He was shrapnelled during the conflict."
• Shrapnel-like (adjective): Describing something that resembles shrapnel.
  • Example: "The explosion left shrapnel-like debris scattered everywhere."

Different Meaning:

While "shrapnel" primarily refers to explosive fragments, it can also be used metaphorically. For instance, someone might describe the emotional or psychological effects of a traumatic event as "shrapnel" that lingers long after the event.

Synonyms:

• Fragments
• Debris
• Splinters

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "shrapnel," you might encounter phrases like "caught in the crossfire," which refers to being caught in the middle of a dangerous situation, similar to being affected by shrapnel.

Summary:

In summary, "shrapnel" refers to dangerous fragments from an explosive device.

Academic

Noun

1. shell containing lead pellets that explodes in flight