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detonation

noun

  1. supersonic combustion of an explosive material
L319371 on Wikidata ↗

Wiktionary

Pronunciation: /dɛtəˈneɪʃən/

noun

Etymology: From French détonation; equivalent to detonate + -ion.

  1. An explosion or sudden report made by the near-instantaneous decomposition or combustion of unstable substances. Specifically, combustion that spreads supersonically via shock compression.

    the detonation of gun cotton

  2. An explosion or sudden report made by the near-instantaneous decomposition or combustion of unstable substances. Specifically, combustion that spreads supersonically via shock compression.

    a nuclear detonation

    carbon detonation

  3. Engine knocking, a type of improper combustion in gasoline piston engines.