bombshell

noun

ˈbäm-ˌshel How to pronounce bombshell (audio)
Definition of bombshellnext
as in surprise
something that makes a strong impression because it is so unexpected discovering that I had a long-lost sister was an absolute bombshell

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of bombshell The Royal Family, whose relations with Spencer have long been strained, are said to fear the book could contain numerous bombshells about Charles and Diana’s relationship, which was infamously plagued by adultery and acrimony. — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 17 Sep. 2026 Her mother, Jayne Mansfield, rose to fame as one of the 1950s’ most recognizable blonde bombshells. — Makena Gera, PEOPLE, 15 Sep. 2026 Her younger sisters, Stella and Freida, are dropping major bombshells that fans are enjoying—but those protecting Parton’s estate are reportedly less than pleased. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 31 Aug. 2026 Growing up, pop culture’s representations of girlhood included a blonde Wakefield twin from Sweet Valley High, a post-makeover Ally Sheedy in The Breakfast Club, and a big-breasted bombshell manufactured by some dorks with a Commodore 64. — Lisa Whittington-Hill, Longreads, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bombshell
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bombshell
  1. surprise
  2. shock
  3. jolt
  4. revelation
Noun
  • From a computational perspective, Friston argues, attempting to reduce uncertainty—basically, working to avoid unpleasant surprises—is the brain’s primary goal.
    — Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Students had a surprise visitor — Kendall Jenner, who popped in to their classroom, looking way collegiate in an all-white outfit and sweater around her neck.
    — Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of surprise
Noun
  • The United States also has a uniquely large and diverse economy that is far less susceptible to shocks than many of its smaller peers.
    — David Goldman, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2026
  • Duncan says the initial shock usually fades after a round or two, and cycling back and forth multiple times yields better results.
    — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of shock
Noun
  • When the day starts at sunrise for wildlife safaris, hiking, or skiing, that java jolt is even more important.
    — Lindsay Cohn, Vogue, 23 Oct. 2026
  • But about 15 minutes into the flight, passengers experienced a sudden jolt that sent them lunging forward, according to Mark Springer.
    — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 20 Oct. 2026
Definition of jolt
Noun
  • The blowout news from SpaceX’s Q3 earnings wasn’t the rocket and AI giant’s outstanding performance that far exceeded even the analysts’ elevated expectations, but Elon Musk’s revelation that SpaceX and Tesla are weighing a merger.
    — Shawn Tully, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026
  • The resolution was introduced after revelations about Cornell’s handling of Jane Doe’s allegations that she was raped at the Chi Phi fraternity house in October 2024.
    — Leah Willingham, Los Angeles Times, 21 Oct. 2026
Definition of revelation

Browse Nearby Words

bombs
bombshell
bombshells
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Cite this Entry

“Bombshell.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bombshell. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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