Definition

Noun: A person who carries out a terrorist attack by deliberately causing an explosive device they are carrying to detonate, with the intention of killing or injuring others and knowing this action will cause their own death.

Usage

The term "suicide bomber" is used to describe the specific role of an attacker within the context of terrorism and asymmetric warfare. It focuses on the method (bombing) and the certain outcome (the attacker's death).

Examples

• The suicide bomber detonated the vest in the crowded market.
• Security forces are on high alert for potential suicide bombers.
• The attack was carried out by a lone suicide bomber.

Advanced Usage

• "suicide bombing" (noun): The act or tactic itself.
  • The group has increasingly relied on suicide bombing as a primary strategy.
• "suicide bomb" (verb, less common): To carry out such an attack.
  • The individual attempted to suicide bomb the military checkpoint.

Variants and Related Words

• Martyrdom bomber: A term sometimes used by perpetrators or their supporters, framing the act as a sacrifice for a cause.
• Human bomb: A more descriptive synonym emphasizing the person as the delivery mechanism for the explosive.

Synonyms

• Human bomb
• (Contextual) Terrorist, attacker, assailant

Related Phrases

• Suicide attack / suicide mission: A broader term that can include attacks using vehicles (e.g., car bombs) or other methods where the perpetrator's death is certain.
  • The naval vessel was damaged in a suicide attack by a small boat.
• IED (Improvised Explosive Device): The type of weapon often used in such attacks.
  • The suicide bomber was wearing an IED vest.

Noun

1. a terrorist who blows himself up in order to kill or injure other people