explosive

1 of 2

adjective

ex·​plo·​sive ik-ˈsplō-siv How to pronounce explosive (audio)
-ziv
1
a
: relating to, characterized by, or operated by explosion
an explosive hatch
b
: resulting from or as if from an explosion
explosive population growth
2
a
: tending to explode
an explosive person
b
: likely to erupt in or produce hostile reaction or violence
an explosive situation
explosively adverb
explosiveness noun

explosive

2 of 2

noun

1
: an explosive substance
2
: a consonant characterized by explosion in its articulation when it occurs in certain environments : stop

Examples of explosive in a Sentence

Adjective He has an explosive temper. there's been an explosive interest in the sport since the Olympics
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The blaze broke out on July 13 and burned for several days before undergoing explosive growth fueled by strong winds, high temperatures and low humidity. Christopher Cann, USA Today, 21 July 2025 In order to help retrieve the man from the cave, rescuers widened the cave using explosive charges at three key junctures carrying him to the surface. Ashley J. Dimella, FOXNews.com, 21 July 2025
Noun
The indictment then alleges that Gann researched explosives and firearms online in or around May and June 2025. Sophie Clark, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 July 2025 Surging demand for cement, explosives Besides the hydropower infrastructure and equipment suppliers, analysts suggest construction of the colossal project would also benefit companies involved in production of cement and civil explosive products. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for explosive

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1773, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of explosive was in 1696

Cite this Entry

“Explosive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explosive. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

explosive

1 of 2 adjective
ex·​plo·​sive ik-ˈsplō-siv How to pronounce explosive (audio)
-ziv
1
: able to cause explosion
the explosive power of gunpowder
2
: likely to explode
an explosive temper
explosively adverb
explosiveness noun

explosive

2 of 2 noun
: an explosive substance

More from Merriam-Webster on explosive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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