powder keg

noun

1. a small, metal, barrellike container for gunpowder or blasting powder.
2. a potentially dangerous situation, especially one involving violent repercussions.

powder keg

noun

1. a small barrel used to hold gunpowder
2. informal.
   a potential source or scene of violence, disaster, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of powder keg¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

The Jehanabad prison was a powder keg, housing Maoists alongside their class enemies - vigilantes from upper caste Hindu private armies.

From BBC

And for a potentially powder keg Cannes there’s also the firebomb of “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.”

From Seattle Times

“Everyone knew that Mark Fuhrman was a potential powder keg,” Douglas said.

From Los Angeles Times

“Civil War” is a purpose-built powder keg of controversial talking points and hot-button ideas.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead of being a stressed-out powder keg, he was calm and focused.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• time bomb