blast
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for blast, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An explosion, or the powerful rush of air and force it creates.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use blast
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English blǣst, meaning "a blowing" or "gust," related to the verb "blow."
Full origin of blast →Frequently asked questions
What does “blast” mean?
The word “blast” means an explosion, or the powerful rush of air and force it creates. In plain terms, an explosion or powerful gust of force — or, informally, a great time; as a verb, to blow something up, play something loudly, or criticize harshly.
How do you pronounce “blast”?
“Blast” is pronounced blahst (/blæst/ in IPA).
How do you use “blast” in a sentence?
Here is “blast” used in a sentence: “The blast shattered windows for blocks around.”
What part of speech is “blast”?
Depending on how it is used, “blast” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “blast” come from?
The word “blast” comes from Old English. From Old English blǣst, meaning "a blowing" or "gust," related to the verb "blow.".
Is “blast” a common word?
“Blast” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “blast” have?
“Blast” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: an explosion, or the powerful rush of air and force it creates.
What is the difference between "blast" and "explosion"?
An "explosion" is the violent bursting itself, while a "blast" emphasizes the powerful wave of air, pressure, and force that spreads out from it. People often say they were "knocked over by the blast" rather than by the explosion.
What is the difference between "blast" and "gust"?
A "gust" is a brief, natural rush of wind, while a "blast" of air is stronger and more forceful, and can come from a machine, a door, or an explosion. You might feel "a gust of wind" outdoors but "a blast of cold air" when a freezer opens.