ex·plo·sive
ik-ˈsplō-siv 
-ziv
1
a
: relating to, characterized by, or operated by explosion
an explosive hatch
b
: resulting from or as if from an explosion
explosive population growth
2
a
: tending to explode
an explosive person
b
: likely to erupt in or produce hostile reaction or violence
an explosive situation
explosively
adverb
explosiveness
noun
Synonyms
Examples of explosive in a Sentence
Adjective
He has an explosive temper.
there's been an explosive interest in the sport since the Olympics
Recent Examples on the Web
Khristopher J. Brooks, CBS News, 19 Apr. 2024
However, just because an explosive plume looks big doesn't mean that such an impact is inevitable.
—Erik Klemetti, Discover Magazine, 18 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for explosive 
Adjective
But the explosive growth in wagering has also had a less savory effect that experts say threatens the integrity of professional sports: a surge in players breaking league rules and placing bets, sometimes on their own teams and personal performance.
—Khristopher J. Brooks, CBS News, 19 Apr. 2024
However, just because an explosive plume looks big doesn't mean that such an impact is inevitable.
—Erik Klemetti, Discover Magazine, 18 Apr. 2024
See all Example Sentences for explosive
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'explosive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near explosive
Cite this Entry
“Explosive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/explosive. Accessed 5 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
explosive
1 of 2 adjective
ex·plo·sive
ik-ˈsplō-siv
-ziv
1
: able to cause explosion
the explosive power of gunpowder
2
: likely to explode
an explosive temper
explosively
adverb
explosiveness
noun
explosive
2 of 2 noun
: an explosive substance
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