Detonable

/ˈdɛtənəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Capable of detonating; able to explode with a sudden, violent force.

Etymology

From detonate + -able. Detonate comes from Latin detonare 'to thunder down.' The -able suffix indicates capability and comes from Latin via French.

Kelly Says

Not all explosives are equally 'detonable'—some require a precise trigger like a hammer blow or electrical charge, while others are so sensitive that friction can set them off. This distinction is literally the difference between safe and dangerous handling.

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