bombshell

noun

bomb·​shell ˈbäm-ˌshel 

1

: bomb sense 1a

2

a

: one that is stunning, amazing, or devastating

The book was a political bombshell.

b

: a person who is the cause and object of sensational and usually widespread attention, excitement, or attraction

a blonde bombshell [=a glamorously attractive blonde woman]

Synonyms

• jar
• jaw-dropper
• jolt
• stunner
• surprise
• surprize

Examples of bombshell in a Sentence

discovering that I had a long-lost sister was an absolute bombshell

Recent Examples on the Web

Prophecy dropped a few bombshells — including the mysterious and powerful Desmond Hart’s origins. —Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 15 Dec. 2024

Now, watch Brooke Shields style her classic bombshell hair: Shop all of our latest obsessions in one place! —Annie Blackman, Allure, 2 Dec. 2024

The pardon was a political bombshell that Republicans have used to further President-elect Donald Trump's claims that the Justice Department has been weaponized against him and that the Biden family has been crooked for years. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 2 Dec. 2024

Maya Jama Maya Jama was a bombshell in a custom green satin Conner Ives dress, which was embroidered with floral motifs. —Violet Goldstone, WWD, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1708, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing bombshell

• drop a bombshell

Kids Definition

bombshell

noun

bomb·​shell -ˌshel 

1

: bomb entry 1 sense 1a

2

: a great surprise