Main Entry:

¹blast

Pronunciation:

\ˈblast\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

Middle English, from Old English blǣst; akin to Old High German blāst blast, blāsan to blow, Old English blāwan — more at blow

Date:

before 12th century

1 a: a violent gust of wind b: the effect or accompaniment (as sleet) of such a gust2: the sound produced by an impulsion of air through a wind instrument or whistle3: something resembling a gust of wind: as a: a stream of air or gas forced through a hole b: a vehement outburst c: the continuous blowing to which a charge of ore or metal is subjected in a blast furnace 4 a: a sudden pernicious influence or effect <the blast of a huge epidemic> b: a disease of plants marked by the formation of destructive lesions on leaves and inflorescences5 a: an explosion or violent detonation b: the shock wave of an explosion c: a forceful hit (as in baseball) or shot (as in soccer or golf) ; especially : home run6: speed, capacity, operation <go full blast> <in full blast>7: an enjoyably exciting experience, occasion, or event <I had a blast> ; especially : party

— blast from the past

: a striking reminder of an earlier time : something that excites nostalgia