Firebomb

/ˈfaɪrbɑm/ noun

Definition

A bomb designed to start fires rather than create a large explosion, filled with flammable material that spreads fire over a wide area.

Etymology

Compound of 'fire' and 'bomb.' Developed during World War II as a weapon specifically designed to create widespread fires in urban areas.

Kelly Says

Firebombs were horrifyingly effective in WWII—a single firebombing raid on Tokyo killed more people than the atomic bomb on Hiroshima, making them one of history's most devastating weapons despite being less famous than nuclear weapons.

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