The word "unexplosive" is spelled with the prefix "un-" which is pronounced /ʌn/ and means "not". The stem of the word is "explosive" which is pronounced /ɪkˈspləʊsɪv/. Therefore, the spelling of "unexplosive" means "not explosive" and is pronounced /ˌʌnɪkˈspləʊsɪv/. This word is commonly used to describe materials or devices that are not capable of causing an explosion, making it a useful term in fields such as engineering, chemistry, and manufacturing.
Unexplosive is an adjective that refers to something that does not possess the characteristics or potential for explosion. It describes a substance, material, or device that is incapable of undergoing a sudden release of mechanical, chemical, or nuclear energy with a destructive force. The term is often used to denote the absence of explosion in a specific context or to imply the non-hazardous nature of a particular object or condition.
This term can apply to various objects or situations, such as unexplosive materials used in construction, manufacturing, or scientific experiments. These materials are typically stable and do not react violently or spontaneously when exposed to heat, pressure, or other forms of energy. Additionally, the term can relate to devices that are intentionally designed not to explode or cause damage, for instance, certain safety mechanisms or fail-safe systems.
Unexplosive can also be used metaphorically to describe individuals or situations that lack intensity, excitement, or impact, such as unexplosive performances, unexplosive stories, or unexplosive reactions. In these instances, the term emphasizes the absence of a thrilling or attention-grabbing quality.
Overall, unexplosive indicates the absence of explosion, either in the literal or metaphorical sense, reflecting a stable, non-hazardous, or inert state.
Not bursting out with violence, as gunpowder.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "unexplosive" is a compound word formed by combining the prefix "un-" which means "not" or the opposite of, and the adjective "explosive".
The term "explosive" originally comes from the Latin word "explosivus", which was derived from the verb "explodere", meaning "to drive out by clapping". In Latin, "ex" means "out", and "plaudere" means "to clap" or "to applaud". The term "explosive" was first used in English in the 17th century, referring to a substance capable of causing sudden or violent release of energy, accompanied by noise and often by the generation of high pressures and gases.
By adding the prefix "un-" to "explosive", the word "unexplosive" is formed, meaning "not explosive" or lacking the properties of an explosive substance.