bombshell

noun

bomb·​shell ˈbäm-ˌshel 

1

: bomb sense 1a

2

a

: one that is stunning, amazing, or devastating

The book was a political bombshell.

b

: a person who is the cause and object of sensational and usually widespread attention, excitement, or attraction

a blonde bombshell [=a glamorously attractive blonde woman]

Synonyms of bombshell

• surprise
• shock
• jolt
• revelation

Examples of bombshell in a Sentence

discovering that I had a long-lost sister was an absolute bombshell

Recent Examples on the Web

The reunion sees season eight winners (Trinity and Bryce), fan-favorite couples and bombshells reunite to unpack some of the season’s biggest and drama-filled moments. — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026

The biggest bombshell in this episode is that Emma Easton was likely the person who murdered Isabel. — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 24 Aug. 2026

A week after the Lakers sold in a headspinning bombshell, Walter is reported in English newspapers to be considering exiting another trophy asset, Chelsea Football Club. — Joshua Hong, Fortune, 23 Aug. 2026

Noting that at the end of this challenge, one dancer will be going home, host Robert Irwin drops another bombshell. — Liza Esquibias, USA Today, 17 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1651, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing bombshell

• drop a bombshell

Rhymes for bombshell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel
• dispel

Kids Definition

bombshell

noun

bomb·​shell -ˌshel 

1

: bomb entry 1 sense 1a

2

: a great surprise