detonator

[ det-n-ey-ter ]

noun

1. a device, as a percussion cap, used to make another substance explode.
2. something that explodes.

detonator

/ ˈdɛtəˌneɪtə /

noun

1. a small amount of explosive, as in a percussion cap, used to initiate a larger explosion
2. a device, such as an electrical generator, used to set off an explosion from a distance
3. a substance or object that explodes or is capable of exploding

Word History and Origins

Origin of detonator¹

First recorded in 1815–25; detonate + -or ²

Example Sentences

“Hurley gets this flare gun, and he fires the flare gun into the air with a massive detonator as a tribute to the ship,” explains Dr John Shears who led the expedition that found Endurance.

From BBC

A masked fighter walks the deck of the crippled oil tanker, kneels before a collection of wires and a detonator, then presses a button.

From Los Angeles Times

When the gunman was found, he was carrying a remote detonator and his car contained explosives, law enforcement sources have told US media.

From BBC

After he was killed, agents found homemade explosives inside his car and a remote detonator alongside his body, according to those familiar with evidence gathered in the investigation.

From Los Angeles Times

When daylight came, she found a bomb whose detonator had malfunctioned.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ammunition
• bomb
• booby trap
• dynamite
• gunpowder
• mine
• missile
• munition
• powder