atomic bomb

noun
1.
a bomb whose potency is derived from nuclear fission of atoms of fissionable material with the consequent conversion of part of their mass into energy.
2.
a bomb whose explosive force comes from a chain reaction based on nuclear fission in U-235 or plutonium.
Also, atom bomb.
Also called A-bomb, fission bomb.
Origin
1910-15
British Dictionary definitions for atomic bombs

atomic bomb

noun
1.
a type of bomb in which the energy is provided by nuclear fission. Uranium-235 and plutonium-239 are the isotopes most commonly used in atomic bombs Also called A-bomb, fission bomb Compare fusion bomb
atomic bombs in Science
atomic bomb  
A very destructive bomb that derives its explosive power from the fission of atomic nuclei. Atomic bombs usually have plutonium 239 or uranium 235 as their fissionable material. Also called atom bomb.
atomic bombs in Culture
atomic bomb (A-bomb)

A nuclear weapon whose enormous explosive power results from the sudden release of energy from a fission reaction. (See also Hiroshima, hydrogen bomb, Nagasaki, and Strategic Arms Limitation Talks [SALT].)

atomic bomb definition


A bomb that is powered by nuclear fission, and therefore produces a quick release of energy and great destruction.