TIME BOMB Meaning and
Definition
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A time bomb can be defined as a noun that refers to a device or situation that has the potential to cause great harm or danger at a specific moment in the future. The term "time bomb" is metaphorically derived from an explosive device that is set to detonate at a predetermined time or after a specific period. Its usage extends beyond actual bombs to include any imminent threat or impending disaster that could cause significant damage or have a catastrophic impact.
In its literal manifestation, a time bomb is a mechanism comprising an explosive material, a timer or clockwork device, and a detonator. Once armed, the timer counts down until it reaches the pre-set time when the detonation occurs. The potential damage caused by the explosion is immense, comparable to the devastating effect of a ticking time bomb metaphorically ticking away.
However, in a figurative sense, the term "time bomb" is often employed to describe situations or circumstances where an impending crisis is bound to occur and seems inevitable, establishing a sense of urgency and peril. It signifies an unresolved issue, conflict, or danger that, if left unaddressed, could lead to dire consequences. The tension and uncertainty surrounding the impending event intensifies as time progresses, emphasizing the need for prompt action to mitigate or defuse the situation and prevent the outbreak of catastrophe. Therefore, a time bomb, both in the literal and metaphorical sense, represents a looming threat that necessitates immediate attention and resolution.
Common Misspellings for TIME BOMB
- rime bomb
- fime bomb
- gime bomb
- yime bomb
- 6ime bomb
- 5ime bomb
- tume bomb
- tjme bomb
- tkme bomb
- tome bomb
- t9me bomb
- t8me bomb
- tine bomb
- tike bomb
- tije bomb
- timw bomb
- tims bomb
- timd bomb
- timr bomb
Etymology of TIME BOMB
The etymology of the word "time bomb" can be traced back to the combination of two separate words: "time" and "bomb".
1. Time: The word "time" originates from the Old English word "tīma", which means "limited space of time" or "period". It can be related to the Proto-Germanic word "*timin-" or "to stretch" and is also connected to the Greek word "time" meaning "opportunity".
2. Bomb: The word "bomb" comes from the Italian word "bomba" (or Latin "bomba") meaning "noise" or "explosion". It is believed to be an onomatopoeic word, imitating the sound of an explosion.
When these two words are combined, "time bomb" refers to a bomb that is set to explode at a particular time or after a specified period has passed.
Idioms with the word TIME BOMB
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a (ticking) time bomb
The idiom "a (ticking) time bomb" refers to a person, situation, or thing that poses a great danger or threat, with the potential to explode or cause significant damage if not properly dealt with or managed. It signifies an impending crisis or disaster that could occur at any moment if action is not taken to prevent it.
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time bomb
A time bomb is a potentially dangerous situation or issue that may not seem immediately threatening but has the potential to cause serious harm or consequences in the future.
Similar spelling words for TIME BOMB
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