neutron bomb

noun

1. a nuclear bomb designed to release radiation consisting mainly of neutrons, thus causing extensive loss of life but relatively little damage to buildings and property and only brief radioactive contamination.

neutron bomb

noun

1. a type of nuclear weapon designed to provide a high yield of neutrons but to cause little blast or long-lived radioactive contamination. The neutrons destroy all life in the target area, which theoretically can be entered relatively soon after the attack Technical nameenhanced radiation weapon

Word History and Origins

Origin of neutron bomb¹

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

It was enough to earn him the nickname he hated but could never shake: “Neutron Jack,” a reference to the neutron bomb, which purportedly kills people while leaving buildings intact.

From New York Times

Samuel T. Cohen, the inventor of the neutron bomb, died in Los Angeles at age 89.

From Washington Times

If we learn anything from this sad passage in our history it should be that rage and contempt are a sort of neutron bomb in the marketplace of ideas, obviating actual competition.

From New York Times

The former New York Times reporter recalled walking around "deserted" Times Square and New York City six months ago, comparing it to "as if a neutron bomb went off."

From Fox News

It is almost as if a neutron bomb has struck, removing in an instant all signs of human life, while leaving buildings, roads and other man-made artefacts perfectly intact.

From The Guardian

Related Words

• atom bomb
• hydrogen bomb
• nuclear warhead