detonation

noun

det·​o·​na·​tion ˌde-tᵊn-ˈā-shən 

ˌde-tə-ˈnā-

1

: the action or process of detonating

2

: rapid combustion in an internal combustion engine that results in knocking

Synonyms of detonation

• explosion
• eruption

Examples of detonation in a Sentence

there was a series of detonations around the base of the condemned building, causing it to come crashing down in a matter of minutes

Recent Examples on the Web

This first atomic detonation not only transformed the New Mexico desert but also ushered in the nuclear age, altering WWII and creating an enduring moral burden. — Rebecca Coffey, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Perhaps, Galbreath said, the Space Force should consider improved radiation shielding for its satellites in low-Earth orbit to protect them against a potential nuclear detonation. — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 29 June 2026

Air burst mode in particular extends the round’s utility against personnel (ATGM teams) in defilade or light structures, where a contact detonation would be less effective. — Aditya Jadhav, Interesting Engineering, 24 June 2026

The measure repeals provisions in Finland’s 1987 Nuclear Energy Act that banned the import, production, possession and detonation of nuclear explosives. — Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 18 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1686, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for detonation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation