noun
napalm
NAY-pahm
Napalm (noun) means a thick, flammable jelly-like substance that clings to what it burns, used as a weapon. Example: “The film showed the devastating effects of napalm on the jungle.”
noun
1
A thick, flammable jelly-like substance that clings to what it burns, used as a weapon.
"The film showed the devastating effects of napalm on the jungle."
"Napalm was widely used in aerial bombing during the war."
verb
1
To attack or destroy with napalm.
"The village was napalmed during the offensive."
How to use napalm
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sticky, burning chemical weapon used in warfare.
Common pairings
napalm strike
drop napalm
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Word forms
- Plural
- napalms
- Third person singular
- napalms
- Past tense
- napalmed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The film showed the devastating effects of _____ on the jungle.
Etymology
A blend of "na(phthenic)" and "palm(itic)" acid — the two chemicals originally used to thicken the gasoline into a sticky gel.
Frequently asked questions
What does “napalm” mean?
The word “napalm” means a thick, flammable jelly-like substance that clings to what it burns, used as a weapon. In plain terms, a sticky, burning chemical weapon used in warfare.
How do you pronounce “napalm”?
“Napalm” is pronounced NAY-pahm (/ˈneɪ.pɑːm/ in IPA).
How do you use “napalm” in a sentence?
Here is “napalm” used in a sentence: “The film showed the devastating effects of napalm on the jungle.”
What part of speech is “napalm”?
Depending on how it is used, “napalm” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “napalm” have?
“Napalm” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a thick, flammable jelly-like substance that clings to what it burns, used as a weapon.
