afterblow

noun

af·​ter·​blow
ˈaf-tər-ˌblō
: the continuation of the blow after the complete oxidation of the carbon in the Bessemer process in order to oxidize and separate the phosphorus

Word History

Etymology

after- + blow entry 2

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of afterblow was in 1879

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near afterblow

Cite this Entry

“Afterblow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/afterblow. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!