Definition

1. Noun:
   • A precision-guided munition: A "smart bomb" is a type of aerial bomb equipped with a guidance system, allowing it to be steered toward a specific target after being released. This contrasts with unguided "dumb bombs."

Usage

• The term "smart bomb" is used to describe modern military ordnance that increases accuracy, thereby aiming to reduce collateral damage compared to unguided munitions. It is a technical term in military and defense contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The military used smart bombs to destroy the enemy command center with minimal impact on surrounding buildings.
  • Advances in technology have made the smart bomb a key component of modern air warfare.

Advanced Usage

• The concept relies on the contrast between "smart" (guided, intelligent) and "dumb" (unguided) weapons. It is often discussed in the context of the ethics and efficacy of aerial bombardment.

Variants and Related Words

• Precision-guided munition (PGM) (n): The formal, technical term for a "smart bomb" or similar guided weapon.
• Laser-guided bomb (n): A specific type of smart bomb that uses a laser designator to mark the target.
• GPS-guided bomb (n): A specific type of smart bomb that uses Global Positioning System coordinates to navigate to its target.
• Dumb bomb (n): An informal term for an unguided, traditional gravity bomb.

Synonyms

• Guided bomb: A more general synonym.
• Precision weapon: A broader category that includes smart bombs.

Related Phrases

• Surgical strike: A military attack intended to damage a precise target with minimal collateral damage, often carried out using weapons like smart bombs.

Noun

1. a bomb that can be guided (by a laser beam or radio) to its target
   • smart bombs have revolutionized aerial bombardment