detonator

[det-n-ey-ter]

noun

1. a device, as a percussion cap, used to make another substance explode.

2. something that explodes.

detonator

/ ˈdɛtəˌneɪtə /

noun

1. a small amount of explosive, as in a percussion cap, used to initiate a larger explosion

2. a device, such as an electrical generator, used to set off an explosion from a distance

3. a substance or object that explodes or is capable of exploding

Word History and Origins

Origin of detonator¹

First recorded in 1815–25; detonate + -or ²

Related Words

• ammunition 
• bomb 
• booby trap 
• dynamite 
• gunpowder 
• mine 
• missile 
• munition 
• powder