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Definition of detonate

detonate

/ˈdɛt.ə.neɪt/
det · o · nate
Adjective:detonative
•
Past Simple:detonated
•
Past Participle:detonated
•
Present Participle:detonating
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detonate Lexical Profile

detonate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To explode or cause to explode with sudden violence and a loud noise.

Example

"The demolition crew waited until the area was completely clear before they detonated the charges inside the old stadium."

2

To trigger or spark a sudden, intense reaction, crisis, or controversy (used figuratively).

Example

"The unexpected policy announcement detonated a heated debate across the university campus."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

dethrone
dethronement
detian falls
detonate
detonation
detonator
detour

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 18th century from Latin detonatus, the past participle of detonare ('to thunder down'), formed from de- ('down' or 'completely') and tonare ('to thunder').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Detonate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/detonate
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