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

Scaling breakthrough propulsion Unlike conventional rocket engines that rely on subsonic combustion, Venus’ RDRE generates thrust through a continuously rotating supersonic detonation wave inside the combustion chamber. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 8 July 2026

Researchers know that a nuclear detonation in orbit would flood the space around Earth with fast, energetic electrons. — Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 8 July 2026

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

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