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

Eventually, Mazda figured out how to prevent knock (unintended combustion, aka detonation) with gasoline in a higher compression cylinder. —New Atlas, 23 Feb. 2026

Remote detonations are also used to trigger slides intentionally and remove risky buildup before skiers are allowed on the slopes, said Chris Lundy, an avalanche specialist with the National Avalanche Center. —ABC News, 18 Feb. 2026

His public address envisioned a future filled with waves of nuclear arms buildups and test detonations. —New York Times, 14 Feb. 2026

Ukrainian officials said powerful explosions and secondary detonations were recorded at the site, while the extent of damage was still being assessed. —Efrat Lachter, FOXNews.com, 13 Feb. 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