How Do You Spell BOMBSHELL?

Pronunciation: [bˈɒmʃɛl] (IPA)

Bombshell is a word with an irregular spelling that can be confusing for learners of English. The IPA phonetic transcription for bombshell is /ˈbɑmˌʃɛl/. Note how the "b" sound is followed by a silent "o" and a "mb" cluster, making it different from words like "bone" or "bore". The "s" sound is also followed by a silent "h" and the letter "e", which serves as a marker for the pronunciation of the preceding "s". This illustrates the importance of using phonetic symbols to understand the pronunciation of English words.

BOMBSHELL Meaning and Definition

1. The term "bombshell" is commonly defined as a sudden and shocking event, revelation, or piece of news that has a significant impact on individuals or society as a whole. Derived from the concept of an explosive device, a bombshell is characterized by its ability to create a jarring, disruptive, and often tumultuous effect.

   Typically, a bombshell is unexpected, leaving people astonished, perplexed, or in disbelief due to its magnitude or the implications it carries. It has the power to upend perspectives, overturn assumptions, and fundamentally alter the course of events. Furthermore, a bombshell is often associated with generating a widespread sense of urgency or chaos, as it can prompt immediate action or a reassessment of existing plans and strategies.

   The term "bombshell" is frequently employed in various contexts, including political, social, and entertainment spheres. In politics, a bombshell can refer to a scandal, revelation, or allegation that disrupts the status quo, potentially leading to political fallout, public outcry, or legal consequences. When it comes to entertainment, a bombshell may describe a surprising development or decision with far-reaching consequences within the industry, such as the sudden departure of a beloved actor from a popular television show.

   In summary, a bombshell signifies a highly impactful, striking, and often shocking event or revelation that causes a profound disturbance in the established order, leaving individuals and society in a state of astonishment and requiring immediate attention or adjustment.

Common Misspellings for BOMBSHELL

• vombshell
• nombshell
• hombshell
• gombshell
• bimbshell
• bkmbshell
• blmbshell
• bpmbshell
• b0mbshell
• b9mbshell
• bonbshell
• bokbshell
• bojbshell
• bomvshell
• bomnshell
• bomhshell
• bomgshell
• bombahell
• bombzhell
• bombeshell
• bombshll
• bombshellz
• bombasell
• bombsheel
• bombsheal
• Womshell
• Boteshell

Etymology of BOMBSHELL

The term "bombshell" has an interesting etymology. It originated from the combination of two separate terms - "bomb" and "shell".

The term "bomb" can be traced back to the Greek word "bómbos", which referred to a type of large projectile thrown by the hand or fired from a catapult. It later evolved in various languages, including Latin and French, with similar meanings.

On the other hand, the term "shell" comes from the Old English word "scealu", which originally meant a protective structure like a shell or husk. Over time, it began to refer to the hollow projectiles used in cannons and artillery.

The two words, "bomb" and "shell", were eventually combined in the early 20th century to create the term "bombshell" as a metaphorical expression.

Idioms with the word BOMBSHELL

• drop a bombshell The idiom "drop a bombshell" refers to the act of revealing unexpected, shocking, or startling news or information that has a profound impact on someone or a group of people. It originates from the idea that the explosion caused by a bombshell creates chaos and disruption, similar to the effect of surprising news.
• bombshell A bombshell is a shocking or surprising news, revelation, or event that has a powerful or significant impact.

Similar spelling words for BOMBSHELL

• bomb site,
• bombast,
• bomb shelter,
• "Bombshell,
• bombsight,
• bombus,
• bombycilla.

Plural form of BOMBSHELL is BOMBSHELLS