rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryblastExplosion
noun / verb

blast

BLAST/blæst/

A sudden powerful outburst.

A blast of air from the metal nozzle sends dry leaves flying.

A sudden powerful blast of air from a metal nozzle sends a small cluster of dry leaves sharply outward across a bare surface.
Etymology
blastOld Englishblowing, puff of wind

Old English blæst named a blowing or puff of wind. The later explosion sense extended this air-centered meaning to a sudden, violent burst.

In context

Kraus TBI 1:45
a blast overpressure wave. Just that wave is of air is enough to cause damage to solid and hollow organs in the body.
Living With a Traumatic Brain Injury | Neurosurgeon Dr. Gary Kraus, Houston | Kraus TBI Podcast

More examples

  • The explosion blasted a hole in the concrete wall.
  • A loud blast from the truck’s horn startled pedestrians.
  • We had a blast making up silly songs.

Forms

blast · blasts · blasted · blasting

Similar words

gust
A brief rush of wind, usually occurring naturally.
jet
A narrow stream forced through a small opening.
burst
Emphasizes sudden release rather than the force of the stream.