noun
detonation
deh-tuh-NAY-shuhn
Detonation (noun) means a sudden violent explosion. Example: “The detonation could be heard for miles.”
noun
1
A sudden violent explosion.
"The detonation could be heard for miles."
2
Abnormal, damaging combustion inside a petrol engine, often called knocking.
"Low-quality fuel can cause engine detonation under load."
How to use detonation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn explosion, or (in cars) harmful early combustion known as knocking.
Common pairings
controlled detonation
engine detonation
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Word forms
- Plural
- detonations
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The _____ could be heard for miles.
Etymology
From French détonation, from detonate + -ion.
Synonyms
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explosion
blowup
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for detonation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for detonation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “detonation” mean?
The word “detonation” means a sudden violent explosion. In plain terms, an explosion, or (in cars) harmful early combustion known as knocking.
How do you pronounce “detonation”?
“Detonation” is pronounced deh-tuh-NAY-shuhn (/dɛtəˈneɪʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “detonation” in a sentence?
Here is “detonation” used in a sentence: “The detonation could be heard for miles.”
What is the opposite of “detonation”?
The opposite of “detonation” — its antonyms — is deflagration.
What part of speech is “detonation”?
“Detonation” is a noun.
Where does the word “detonation” come from?
The word “detonation” comes from French. From French détonation, from detonate + -ion.
How many meanings does “detonation” have?
“Detonation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sudden violent explosion.