car bomb

noun

1. a bomb placed in a vehicle and wired to explode when the ignition is started, by remote control, or by a timing device.
2. a vehicle containing explosives detonated by remote control or a timing device.

Word History and Origins

Origin of car bomb¹

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

In Guanajuato state, the explosion of two car bombs highlighted the escalation of cartel warfare, with some criminal groups now arming themselves with grenade launchers and drones rigged with explosives.

From Los Angeles Times

“One hundred dollars a month to stand in the way of potential car bombs that might plough through the front entrance sounds crazy now that I think of it.”

From BBC

But within months of the car bomb, the club was forced to shut its doors.

From BBC

On 15 August 1998 - just months after the signing of the Good Friday Agreement - a large car bomb exploded in the town's main street during peak Saturday shopping.

From BBC

The fact that about a kilometre away a car bomb exploded outside the Top Coffee restaurant which was packed with football fans highlights the schizophrenic nature of life in Somalia.

From BBC