firebombing
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˈfaɪərˌbɑːmɪŋ//
KK: /ˈfaɪərˌbɑːmɪŋ/
noun
Definition
An attack that uses bombs designed to start fires, often causing destruction to buildings and areas.
Example
The city suffered extensive damage due to the firebombing during the war.
Conversation
Did you hear about the recent firebombing in the city?
Yeah, it's really concerning how violent things have gotten.
I know, right? It makes me worried about our safety.
Absolutely, we need to stay informed and cautious.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bombing
attack
assault
Antonyms
peace
ceasefire
truce
verb
Definition
To attack a place by dropping incendiary bombs, causing fire damage.
Example
The military planned to firebomb the enemy's supply lines during the operation.
Tense Forms
Past: firebombed
Past Participle: firebombed
Conversation
Did you hear about that new video game where you can firebombing enemy bases?
Yeah, I saw a trailer for it! It looks super intense.
I can't wait to try it out and see how the firebombing mechanics work in-game.
Root Explanation
Firebombing is formed from "fire" (from Old English "fyr", meaning combustion or flame) and "bombing" (from "bomb" which comes from Latin "bombus", meaning a booming or buzzing sound, combined with the suffix "-ing" indicating the action of). The term refers to the act of dropping incendiary bombs to cause destruction by fire.
Memory Tip
Think of 'fire' as the flame and 'bombing' as the action of dropping something explosive. This helps you remember that firebombing means to drop bombs that create fire.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.