pattern bombing

noun

1. aerial bombing in which bombs are dropped on a target in a predetermined pattern.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pattern bombing¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

“With 2,000 planes, and it’s pattern bombing,” he said, “we’re bombing civilians. But our command wanted to get the war over with.”

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Reconnaissance photos later showed a well-pocked target, testified anew to the effectiveness of this combination of U.S. precision bombing with the heavy destructive punch of mass-formation pattern bombing.

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"Pattern bombing" crushed gun emplacements one by one.

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