bombshell

[bom-shel]

noun

1. a bomb.

2. something or someone having a sudden and sensational effect.

   The news of his resignation was a bombshell.

bombshell

/ ˈbɒmˌʃɛl /

noun

1. (esp formerly) a bomb or artillery shell

2. a shocking or unwelcome surprise

   the news of his death was a bombshell

3. informal,  an attractive girl or woman (esp in the phrase blonde bombshell )

Word History and Origins

Origin of bombshell¹

1700–10; 1925–30 bombshell for def. 2; bomb + shell

Idioms and Phrases

see drop a bombshell.

Example Sentences

But it also attempts to do some damage control for Deen, who continues to reel from a bombshell 2013 deposition that soured her reputation and impacted her business — hard.

Read more on Salon

Earlier in the day, Fox News was busy plumbing the depths of the Biden “autopen” scandal after a “bombshell report.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

In the process, the little bombshell also upends the timeline for ancient Greek art.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

There won't be any more bombshells on our screens this summer as Love Island wraps up its 12th series on Monday.

Read more on BBC

Espinal, a self-described “Dominican Cinderella,” entered the villa as a “bombshell,” a cast addition meant to stir things up for the original couples.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• awe 
• bump 
• collapse 
• confusion 
• consternation 
• disturbance 
• earthquake 
• excitement 
• impact 
• injury 
• jolt 
• scare 
• trauma