Definition

A thick, sticky substance made from a mixture of certain chemicals, used in bombs and flamethrowers to create fire.

Example

The military used napalm in the conflict to destroy enemy positions.

Conversation

Did you hear about the history of napalm in warfare?

Yeah, it's pretty intense how it was used in Vietnam.

Exactly! It's hard to believe something like napalm was created for warfare.

I know, right? It's a reminder of how technology can be used destructively.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To attack or bombard with a flammable substance that causes severe destruction.

Example

The military decided to napalm the enemy stronghold to ensure complete destruction.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the movie that shows how they used to napalm during the war?

Yeah, I did! It's pretty intense, right?

I can't believe they would napalm such areas without thinking of the consequences.

Root Explanation

Napalm is a blend of "naphthenic" (from the Greek "naphtha", meaning a flammable liquid hydrocarbon mixture) and "palmitic" (from Latin "palmiticus", meaning pertaining to palm oil). The term refers to a flammable gel used in incendiary weapons, combining the properties of these two substances.

Memory Tip

Think of 'naphtha' as a flammable liquid and 'palmitic' as related to palm oil, which helps you remember that napalm is a flammable gel used in warfare.

Visually Confused Words