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shrapnel

noun

/ˈʃrapnl/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shrapnel

Fragments of metal or other material that are expelled from a bomb, artillery shell, or other explosive device.
"The surgeon removed shrapnel from the soldier's leg."

Detailed meaning of shrapnel

These fragments often travel at high speeds and can cause significant damage and injury when they impact. The term is named after Henry Shrapnel, an English artillery officer who developed a type of explosive shell that was designed to burst in the air and spread fragments over a wide area. Today, shrapnel is often used as a general term to describe any type of fragmentation that results from an explosive event, regardless of the type of explosive or the method used to spread the fragments. In warfare, shrapnel is considered to be a significant threat to both military personnel and civilians, and protective measures such as armor and cover are often used to mitigate its effects.

Example sentences containing shrapnel

1. The soldier was injured by flying shrapnel during the explosion.
2. Shrapnel from the artillery shell scattered in all directions.
3. Protective gear shielded the troops from lethal shrapnel.
4. The surgeon removed shrapnel fragments from the wounded soldier.
5. The blast sent deadly shrapnel into the air.
6. The old battlefield still contained hidden shrapnel.

History and etymology of shrapnel

The noun 'shrapnel' has its origins in the name of Lieutenant Henry Shrapnel, a British artillery officer who invented a type of artillery shell in the late 18th century. Shrapnel's innovation involved a hollow cannonball filled with small, lead pellets and a bursting charge. Upon exploding, the cannonball released these lead pellets, creating a deadly hail of fragments that scattered in all directions. This new artillery shell design was initially called 'spherical case shot,' but it later became known as 'shrapnel' in honor of its inventor. Over time, the term 'shrapnel' came to represent any fragments of metal or other material that are expelled from a bomb, artillery shell, or explosive device upon detonation. The etymology of 'shrapnel' underscores its historical association with military artillery and its inventor, Lieutenant Henry Shrapnel, whose name became synonymous with this devastating form of projectile.

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Further usage examples of shrapnel

1. Shrapnel wounds were common among the infantry.
2. The bomb's impact sent shrapnel tearing through buildings.
3. Survivors recounted the terrifying rain of shrapnel.
4. A piece of shrapnel narrowly missed the medic.
5. The vehicle's armor protected the crew from shrapnel.
6. Shrapnel scars marked the veteran's body.
7. The explosion showered deadly shrapnel across the area.
8. The shrapnel tore through the enemy's defenses.
9. Soldiers sought cover to avoid shrapnel injuries.
10. The bomb's shrapnel caused extensive damage.
11. The blast left a trail of shrapnel-laden destruction.
12. Shrapnel wounds required immediate medical attention.
13. The explosion sent shards of shrapnel flying.
14. Shrapnel from the grenade injured several troops.
15. The blast's shockwave propelled lethal shrapnel.
16. The soldier's helmet protected him from shrapnel.
17. The minefield was laden with hidden shrapnel.
18. The artillery barrage released a deadly hail of shrapnel.
19. The building's walls were pocked with shrapnel holes.