Definition

A powerful explosive made from a combination of ammonium nitrate and trinitrotoluene.

Example

The military used amatol as a powerful explosive in their operations.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of amatol?

Yeah, isn't it some kind of explosive?

Exactly! It's a mix of ammonium nitrate and trinitrotoluene.

That sounds pretty dangerous; I wouldn't want to handle it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amatol is a compound word formed from 'amato-' (from Latin 'amare', meaning to love) and '-tol' (from the Greek 'tol', meaning to bear or carry). The word refers to a type of explosive that is derived from a mixture of TNT and other materials, metaphorically suggesting a 'loving' or 'carrying' explosive power.

Memory Tip

Think of 'amare' meaning to love and 'tol' meaning to carry — this helps you remember that amatol is a powerful explosive that metaphorically 'carries' a strong impact.

Visually Confused Words