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bombshell

noun

ˈbäm-ˌshel How to pronounce bombshell (audio)
Definition of bombshellnext
as in surprise
something that makes a strong impression because it is so unexpected discovering that I had a long-lost sister was an absolute bombshell

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of bombshell 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 That includes Troy Barrett and Harris Drover, the hot new bombshells in the villa played by Charlie Gillespie and Justice Smith. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 25 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 See All Example Sentences for bombshell
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bombshell
  1. surprise
  2. shock
  3. jolt
  4. revelation
Noun
  • Because every moment is narrated in Ugandan Sign Language and International Sign, Deaf travelers are more deeply immersed in the experience, and a welcome hush falls over the environment—which is, surprise, appreciated by the wildlife too.
    — CNT Editors, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026
  • The killings typically played out in similar ways, with the victims – all strangers to Scott – approached while isolated and then apparently shot by surprise.
    — Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026
Definition of surprise
Noun
  • Today, the mechanisms that contained the initial energy shock are faltering.
    — RICHARD HAASS, Foreign Affairs, 23 Sep. 2026
  • Rate hikes can't easily fix supply-side issues like the prolonged energy shock taking place right now.
    — Justin Zacks, CNBC, 23 Sep. 2026
Definition of shock
Noun
  • The dwelling has evolved over the years as Jenner has matured and trends have shifted, now imbued with warm neutrals and an air of serenity rather than bold jolts of energy.
    — Architectural Digest, Architectural Digest, 15 Sep. 2026
  • While that may not make sense right away, considering the Flyers plan to keep Trevor Zegras at center for now, perhaps that’s something Tocchet turns to at some point to try to give the team a jolt or if another center is struggling.
    — Kevin Kurz, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
Definition of jolt
Noun
  • There is a big revelation less than halfway into the show, one that might even count as a plot twist, and thus something not to be spoiled… if not for the fact that virtually every synopsis in the last 70 years has included it in the first sentence.
    — Chris Willman, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026
  • One of the revelations in this book is that Endeavor was founded, in your words, on a lie.
    — Lane Brown, Vulture, 23 Sep. 2026
Definition of revelation

Browse Nearby Words

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bombshell
bombshells
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Cite this Entry

“Bombshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bombshell. Accessed 24 Sep. 2026.

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