bunker buster
3
7.9
- noun
- /ˈbʌŋkər ˈbʌstər/
- Specialized
:
bomba penetrante
- The military used bunker buster bombs to target hidden enemy installations deep underground.
Examples
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Also shown is the destructive reach of a shallow-buried (10-20-m) bunker buster as a function of its yield—that is, how deep a target a given bomb could destroy.
Academic text (2003) -
We have supplied Israel with our new deeper penetrating bunker busters.
Blog text (6) -
Developing an effective bunker-buster is complicated in part because of the variables, experts say.
Blog text (11) -
Fortified fighting positions would need various bunker busters or various other means.
Blog text (2) -
However, it is almost certain that Fordow would be targeted with powerful bunker busters.
Blog text (13) -
The U.S. has bunker buster bombs that reportedly could destroy Iran's nuclear facilities as they take them deep underground.
Blog text (20) -
In Baghdad, 42 cruise missiles and bunker buster bombs from F-117's were aimed at Iraq's leaders.
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The attack came in waves, cruise missiles, followed by the F117 stealth bombers with so-called bunker buster bombs.
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During the conflict, the air force deployed bunker buster munitions to destroy fortified positions.
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To ensure the safety of troops, commanders ordered the use of bunker buster weapons against hard targets.
Synonyms
A strong bomb that goes through hard targets before it explodes
A heavy laser-guided bomb weighing 5,000 pounds that goes deep into bunkers to destroy them
A very large guided bomb made to break through thick concrete and explode underground
How Penetrating
- Specialized
3
7.9
∞
1.8
Surface Forms
Morphology
The compound is directly built from 'bunker' (a fortified subterranean shelter) + 'buster' (something that breaks or defeats), so its meaning—an object that destroys or penetrates bunkers—is transparently derivable. The '-buster' pattern (e.g. 'ghostbuster') is productive in English, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents will readily infer the MWE's sense.
Etymology
The name bunker buster gives a clear image: a bomb made to 'bust', or break open, a bunker of thick concrete. That's why the term means a very powerful bomb made to go through strong, underground buildings and 'destroy' them.