gunpowder

noun gun·pow·der \-ˌpau̇-dər\

: a dry explosive substance that is used in guns and to break open sections of rock or earth for mining, building roads, etc.

Full Definition of GUNPOWDER

: an explosive mixture of potassium nitrate, charcoal, and sulfur used in gunnery and blasting; broadly : any of various powders used in guns as propelling charges

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First Known Use of GUNPOWDER

15th century

Rhymes with GUNPOWDER

black powder, tooth powder

GUNPOWDER Defined for Kids

gunpowder

noun gun·pow·der \ˈgən-ˌpau̇-dər\

Definition of GUNPOWDER for Kids

: an explosive powder used in guns and blasting

Learn More About GUNPOWDER

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "gunpowder"

Nglish: Translation of "gunpowder" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "gunpowder" for Arabic speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "gunpowder"

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