war-head

A missile's war-head detaches and streaks toward its target.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Explosive part of a missile: A "warhead" is the front or forward section of a missile, torpedo, or other projectile that contains the explosive charge, chemical agent, or nuclear payload designed to cause damage upon impact or detonation.

Usage Examples

• (The explosive part of the missile.)
• (The nuclear payload section of a missile.)
• (The explosive charge in the torpedo.)

Advanced Usage

• "Multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) warhead": A type of warhead that can be separated from a single missile to strike multiple targets.

  • The MIRV warhead system allowed one missile to deliver several nuclear warheads to different cities. (A sophisticated warhead design for multiple targets.)

• "Warhead yield": The explosive power of a warhead, often measured in kilotons or megatons of TNT equivalent.

  • The warhead yield of the bomb was estimated at 200 kilotons. (The destructive capacity of the explosive.)

Variants and Related Words

• Warhead (n): The explosive payload of a missile, torpedo, or bomb.

  • The warhead is the most critical component of any guided weapon. (The explosive part.)

• Warheadless (adj): Lacking a warhead; inert or non-explosive.

  • The test missile was warheadless to ensure safety during trials. (Without an explosive charge.)

Synonyms

• Payload: The destructive or carrying capacity of a weapon, especially a missile.
• Explosive charge: The material designed to detonate and cause damage.

Related Idioms

• "Tip of the spear": While not directly synonymous, this idiom refers to the forward, offensive element of a military operation, similar to the warhead's role as the striking component.
  • The special forces are the tip of the spear in modern warfare. (The primary attacking force.)

Phrasal Verbs