explosion
explosion (ĭk-splōʹzhən) noun
1. a. A release of mechanical, chemical, or nuclear energy in a sudden and often violent manner with the generation of high temperature and usually with the release of gases. b. A violent bursting as a result of internal pressure. c. The loud, sharp sound made as a result of either of these actions.
2. A sudden, often vehement outburst: an explosion of rage.
3. A sudden, great increase: a population explosion; the explosion of illegal drug use.
4. Linguistics. See plosion.
[Latin explōsiō, explōsiōn-, a driving off, from explōsus past participle of explōdere, to drive out by clapping. See explode.]