WordGarden.ioblast
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /blˈɑːst/
US
- /ˈblæst/
Meanings
Noun
an explosion or explosive burst
a sudden strong burst of air, sound, heat, or energy
an exciting or very enjoyable time
Verb
to hit, destroy, or open something with explosive force or gunfire
to criticize someone or something harshly or publicly
to play, send out, or drive something with very great volume or force
Beyond the definition
A "blast" can be many things! It might be the powerful rush of air from an explosion—think of a demolition or a rocket launch. But it's also used to describe something incredibly fun and energetic, like "We had a blast at the concert!" Or picture a cold winter wind—that's a blast too. The word comes from Old English, where it meant a strong gust of air. So next time you're having a great time, remember you're using it in the most positive sense!
The word "blast" is surprisingly versatile, carrying meanings that range from destructive force to pure enjoyment. At its core, it refers to a sudden and powerful outpouring of something—often air, sound, or energy.
You might hear about a blast of cold air sweeping in with a winter storm, or the devastating blast radius following an explosion. In these cases, "blast" describes a forceful rush that can cause damage. Historically, it also meant a strong gust of wind, which is still seen in uses like "a blast of cold air."
However, "blast" is also commonly used to describe something incredibly enjoyable! Saying you "had a blast" means you had a really good time—full of fun and excitement. This usage likely comes from the feeling of being energized or swept away by positive experiences.
As a verb, "to blast" is just as active. It can mean to cause an explosion (blasting a hole in rock), to criticize someone harshly (blasted him for his mistake), or to play music at a very high volume (blasting tunes).
So, whether it's the force of an explosion, a chilly wind, or a fantastic experience—"blast" is a word that certainly packs a punch!
Examples
- 1
Explosion
The blast shattered windows on both sides of the street.
- 2
Sudden air
A blast of cold air hit me when I opened the freezer.
- 3
Tunnel work
Workers blasted a tunnel through the rock last year.
- 4
Loud music
Someone was blasting music from a car outside my apartment.
- Patternblast + music/sound
play it very loudly
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Maximum level
The fan was on full blast all night.
- Phraseon full blast
at the strongest or highest level
- 6
Enjoyment
We had a blast at Maya's birthday party.
- Phrasehave a blast
have a very good time
- 7
Strong criticism
The senator blasted the company for hiding the report.
- Patternblast someone for + action/problem
criticize them very strongly
- 8
Rocket launch
The rocket blasted off just after sunrise.
- Phraseblast off
leave the ground very fast, especially a rocket
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- bomb blast
- blast radius
- blast wave
Word family
Explore
- explosives
- shock wave
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- blastnounverb
Forms
- blasting-ing formverbnoun
- blastedpast tenseverbnoun
- blastspluralnounverb