Bombshells

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A startling disclosure or revelation that dramatically shifts understanding
2. An unforeseen announcement or event that captures interest and often leads to considerable reactions
3. A surprising piece of information that causes a big reaction ; a woman who is notably beautiful or glamorous

Etymology: "Bombshells" is the plural of "bombshell," a compound formed from "bomb" and "shell." The word began with the literal sense of a hollow artillery projectile, the explosive shell fired from a mortar or cannon, and that military meaning is the foundation for everything else. Its figurative use, a sudden shock or unexpected revelation, carries the image of something that lands without warning and detonates among people. A later sense emerged in dating culture, where a bombshell is a strikingly attractive person. This meaning was popularized by the reality series Love Island in 2015, and it shows how a term for a weapon can be turned toward a very different kind of impact.

Synonyms: shockers, revelations