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 reunion sees season eight winners (Trinity and Bryce), fan-favorite couples and bombshells reunite to unpack some of the season’s biggest and drama-filled moments. — Carly Thomas, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026 That includes Troy Barrett and Harris Drover, the hot new bombshells in the villa played by Charlie Gillespie and Justice Smith. — Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 25 Aug. 2026 The biggest bombshell in this episode is that Emma Easton was likely the person who murdered Isabel. — Erin Qualey, Vulture, 24 Aug. 2026 A week after the Lakers sold in a headspinning bombshell, Walter is reported in English newspapers to be considering exiting another trophy asset, Chelsea Football Club. — Joshua Hong, Fortune, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for bombshell
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bombshell
  1. surprise
  2. shock
  3. jolt
  4. revelation
Noun
  • To [React with exaggerated surprise] is to DO A DOUBLE TAKE — as in, to take out double letters (not consecutive ones, mind you).
    — Sam Corbin, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Buckhead is far from a tranquil neighborhood, so this little oasis is a welcome surprise.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of surprise
Noun
  • Globally, there is shock and condemnation over how Israel has conducted the war, and how Gaza remains in ruins and cut off from the world a year since the ceasefire.
    — Cara Anna, Los Angeles Times, 7 Oct. 2026
  • Luckily, Skechers’ AERO Razor relies on a highly responsive HYPER BURST PRO™ midsole foam with HYPER ARC® rocker technology, a shock-absorbing Arch Fit® insole system, and a forefoot H-Wing™ for explosive energy return.
    — Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of shock
Noun
  • For fall, oxblood, navy, bronze, or dove gray worked into the waterline can offer the same unexpected jolt.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
  • Renault just gave one of its most beloved nameplates a jolt of electricity.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2026
Definition of jolt
Noun
  • The revelations add pressure on an intelligence establishment trying to remake itself after decades, and complicate Berlin’s efforts to counter Russia’s hybrid war, as lawmakers debate expanding the BND’s powers.
    — Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 7 Oct. 2026
  • But the real revelation was the bathroom, with its marble walls, radiant penny-tile flooring, double sinks, Toto toilet, heated towel rack, and freestanding soaking tub.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 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 9 Oct. 2026.

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