depth charge

noun

1. an explosive device that is used against submarines and other underwater targets, and is usually set to detonate at a predetermined depth.

depth charge

noun

1. a bomb used to attack submarines that explodes at a pre-set depth of water

Word History and Origins

Origin of depth charge¹

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

The Curtiss’ 5-inch guns fired on it, and a passing destroyer took it out with depth charges.

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A father has said his 24-year-old daughter’s suicide hit him like a "depth charge" which "shred things in ways that are difficult to describe".

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“He hit the fish right on the head. I swear, man. It was like a depth charge. He frickin’ nailed this thing.

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They included anti-submarine depth charges and smoke floats used to lay down cover for warships.

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Among the munitions documented were Hedgehog and Mark 9 depth charges — explosives that were typically dropped from warships to attack submarines.

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