(~s)
1.
An ~ is a substance or device that can cause an explosion.
...one-hundred-and-fifty pounds of Semtex ~...
N-VAR
2.
Something that is ~ is capable of causing an explosion.
The ~ device was timed to go off at the rush hour...
ADJ
~ly
Hydrogen is ~ly flammable when mixed with oxygen.
ADV: ADV adj, ADV after v
3.
An ~ growth is a sudden, rapid increase in the size or quantity of something.
The ~ growth in casinos is one of the most conspicuous signs of Westernisation.
ADJ
~ly
These transactions grew ~ly in the early 1980s.
ADV: ADV after v, ADV adj
4.
An ~ situation is likely to have difficult, serious, or dangerous effects.
He appeared to be treating the potentially ~ situation with some sensitivity...
Nobody knows what ~ arguments the future of Europe will bring.
ADJ: usu ADJ n
~ly
A referendum next year would coincide ~ly with the election campaign.
ADV: ADV after v
5.
If you describe someone as ~, you mean that they tend to express sudden violent anger.
He’s inherited his father’s ~ temper.
= fiery
ADJ
~ly
‘Are you mad?’ David asked ~ly.
ADV: ADV after v, ADV adj
6.
A sudden loud noise can be described as ~.
He made a loud, ~ noise of disgust.
...an ~ drumbeat.
ADJ
~ly
The sound of her own chewing and swallowing were ~ly loud.
ADV: ADV adj, ADV after v