LANDMINE Meaning and
Definition
-
A landmine is a type of explosive device that is concealed or buried beneath the ground or water, designed to be triggered by the presence, proximity, or contact of an unsuspecting individual, vehicle, or animal. These insidious weapons are a grim legacy of conflicts, instigating long-lasting and pervasive human suffering even after the cessation of hostilities.
Landmines typically come in various forms, such as anti-personnel or anti-tank, designed to inflict specific types of damage or destruction. Once triggered, they release a devastating explosion, causing severe injuries or fatalities as well as damaging surroundings. They possess a diverse array of activation mechanisms, ranging from pressure-sensitive switches to tripwires or magnetic triggers.
Due to their indiscriminate nature and hidden presence, landmines pose a significant threat to civilian populations, impeding economic development, agriculture, and infrastructure rehabilitation in affected regions. These hidden killers remain dormant for years or even decades after conflicts have ceased, lurking beneath the surface and persevering as silent assassins.
Efforts directed towards landmine removal and clearance have become crucial in post-conflict rehabilitation to mitigate the risks they present. Technologies like metal detectors, mine-detection dogs, and specialized equipment are used to locate, disarm, and safely remove these hazardous devices. International treaties, such as the Ottawa Treaty, have also sought to curtail the production, use, and stockpiling of landmines, along with promoting awareness and assistance for victims.
Overall, the insidious nature and potentially devastating consequences of landmines necessitate continued global efforts to rid the world of this menace and support those harmed by their presence.
Common Misspellings for LANDMINE
Etymology of LANDMINE
The word "landmine" consists of two parts: "land" and "mine".
The term "land" comes from the Old English word "lond", which originally meant "ground" or "soil". Over time, it evolved to refer specifically to an area of ground or territory.
The term "mine" is derived from the Old French word "mine", which means "an excavation". This word has roots in the Latin word "mina", meaning "metal ore" or "vein". In medieval times, the term "mine" was primarily associated with underground tunnels dug for the extraction of minerals or the prosecution of military activities, such as siege warfare.
When combined, "landmine" refers to an explosive device that is placed underground or on the surface of the land to be triggered by contact or proximity. The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe this particular type of weapon.
Similar spelling words for LANDMINE
- land mile,
- landing net,
- landowner,
- Landon,
- landmark,
- landing,
- landmass,
- Landen,
- Landin,
- landman,
- land mine.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
