What is car bomb? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of car bomb in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of car bomb

car bombnoun
xe bom
/ˈkɑː bɒm//ˈkɑːr bɑːm/

Where does the word car bomb come from?

The term "car bomb" emerged during the Lebanese Civil War in the 1980s. It refers to a type of terrorist attack where a vehicle packed with explosives is deliberately driven into a crowded area, such as a market, embassy, or military base. The first recorded use of this tactic can be traced back to the Lebanese conflict, where various militant groups, including Hezbollah and the Palestine Liberation Organization, employed car bombs as a devastating weapon against their enemies. The devastating nature and lethality of car bombs have made them a preferred choice for terrorist organizations worldwide, with notable incidents occurring in countries like Spain, Iraq, and Afghanistan. The impact of a car bomb can be catastrophic, causing significant loss of life and infrastructure damages, making it a potent terrorism tool that continues to pose a significant threat to global security.

Example of vocabulary car bombnamespace

A car bomb exploded in the center of the city, causing widespread destruction and numerous casualties.
The authorities are warning of a potential car bomb attack in the busy shopping district, urging people to be vigilant.
The car bomb went off near the government building, injuring a number of civilians and officials.
The suspects in the car bomb plot were arrested before they could carry out the attack.
The car bomb was discovered before it could cause any harm, thanks to the quick action of the police.