Definition

A component of a missile or bomb that carries the explosive or harmful material intended to cause damage when it hits a target.

Example

The military tested a new type of warhead designed to minimize collateral damage.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new missile testing in the news?

Yeah, I read that they were testing a missile with a powerful warhead.

It's kind of scary to think about what those warheads can do.

I know, right? It's a reminder of how important it is to promote peace.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Warhead** → It is formed from "war" (from Old English *werre*, meaning conflict or battle) and "head" (from Old English *heafod*, meaning the top or leader). The word "warhead" refers to the part of a missile or weapon that contains the explosive charge, metaphorically the 'head' of the weapon used in conflict.

Memory Tip

Think of 'war' as a conflict and 'head' as the leading part — a warhead is the leading part of a weapon used in conflict.

Visually Confused Words