explosive definition

1. a chemical substance that undergoes a rapid chemical change (with the production of gas) on being heated or struck
2. serving to explode or characterized by explosion or sudden outburst
• examples: an explosive device
• examples: explosive gas
• examples: explosive force
• examples: explosive violence
• examples: an explosive temper
3. liable to lead to sudden change or violence
• examples: an explosive issue
• examples: a volatile situation with troops and rioters eager for a confrontation
4. sudden and loud
• examples: an explosive laugh