high explosive

noun

1. a class of explosive, as TNT, in which the reaction is so rapid as to be practically instantaneous, used in shells and bombs.

high explosive

noun

1. an extremely powerful chemical explosive, such as TNT or gelignite

Other Word Forms

• high-explosive adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of high explosive¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The demonstration would involve the firing of high explosive rounds from M777 Howitzers into designated ranges, the Marine Corps said.

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Navy ship during the event, but Marines will fire high explosive rounds from artillery known as M777 Howitzers into designated ranges “with all safety precautions in place.”

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Camp Pendleton advised nearby residents that there will be live-fire training with high explosive munitions through Sunday, which will result in some roads on base being closed.

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The company's Facebook page says it manufactures "various high explosive compositions and specialty products" for the US Department of Defense as well as US industrial markets.

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Israel faces accusations of a genocidal attack on Gaza's Palestinians, not just with bullets and high explosive, but by using food as a weapon of war.

Read more on BBC