Definition

A type of explosive made from highly nitrated cellulose, commonly used in smokeless gunpowder.

Example

The military uses guncotton in various types of ammunition.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of guncotton?

Yeah, it's that explosive compound, right?

Exactly! It's used in smokeless powder for firearms.

That's really interesting; I didn't know it had such a history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Guncotton is formed from "gun" (from Middle English *gunne*, meaning a type of firearm) and "cotton" (from Old French *cotton*, meaning a soft fiber). The word refers to a type of explosive made from cotton that is used in firearms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gun' as a type of firearm and 'cotton' as the soft fiber used to create this explosive. This helps you remember that guncotton is an explosive made from cotton used in guns.

Visually Confused Words