Bombing

Definition

Bombing refers to the act of attacking a target with bombs, typically from aircraft, or to the intentional detonation of explosive devices in a targeted area to cause destruction, damage, or fear. In informal contexts, it can also refer to performing poorly or failing at an activity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "bomb")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɑːmɪŋ/
• Respelling: BOM-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɒmɪŋ/
• Respelling: BOM-ing

The pronunciation of "bombing" is similar in both American and British English, with slight differences in vowel sounds due to accent variations.

Etymology

The word "bombing" derives from the noun "bomb," which originated from the French word "bombe" and the Italian word "bomba," both meaning an explosive device. These terms are derived from the Latin "bombus," meaning "a booming sound," which is ultimately from the Greek "bombos," an onomatopoeic word representing a deep, hollow noise. The term was adopted in the 20th century to describe aerial attacks and has since expanded in usage.

Derivatives

• Bomber (noun)
• Bombard (verb)
• Bombarded (adjective)
• Bombing run (noun phrase)
• Bombardment (noun)

Synonyms

• Attack
• Assault
• Shelling

Antonyms

• Peace
• Protection
• Defense

Usage

The word "bombing" is commonly used to describe attacks that involve explosives, particularly in military or terrorist contexts. For example, "The city experienced heavy bombing during the war." In informal language, it may refer to failing an activity, as in "The comedian was bombing on stage."

Related Terms

• Explosive: A device or substance capable of causing explosions.
• Raid: A sudden attack, often with aircraft, involving bombing or shooting.
• Strike: A targeted attack, often involving precision bombing.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of dropping bombs on a target: Refers to the military or terrorist act of detonating bombs in a particular area to achieve destructive results.
  • Example: "The bombing of the city caused extensive damage."
• A failure or poor performance (informal): In colloquial usage, it can refer to the act of failing at an activity, especially in performing arts or sports.
  • Example: "Her performance was a bombing in front of the audience."

Verb (present participle of "bomb")

• Attacking a target with bombs: Refers to the action of using explosives or bombs against a specific target.
  • Example: "The planes were bombing enemy positions."
• To fail at an activity (informal): In informal contexts, it means performing poorly or failing to impress.
  • Example: "The comedian was bombing on stage due to a lack of audience response."