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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 notes

In plain EnglishAn explosion, or (in cars) harmful early combustion known as knocking.

Common pairings
controlled detonation engine detonation

Word forms

detonations plural

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The _____ could be heard for miles.

Etymology

From French détonation, from detonate + -ion.

Origin: French

explosion blowup

Antonyms

Related words

Rhymes for detonation

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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.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial