Gunpowder /(gŭn"pou`dẽr)/
Gun·pow·der
Gunpowder
n.
- A black, granular, explosive substance, consisting of an intimate mechanical mixture of saltpeter, charcoal, and sulphur. It is used in gunnery and blasting. (Chem.)
Phrases & Compounds
- Gunpowder pile driver
- a pile driver, the hammer of which is thrown up by the explosion of gunpowder.
- Gunpowder plot
- a plot to destroy the King, Lords, and Commons, in revenge for the penal laws against Catholics. As Guy Fawkes, the agent of the conspirators, was about to fire the mine, which was placed under the House of Lords, he was seized, Nov. 5, 1605. Hence, Nov. 5 is known in England as Guy Fawkes Day.
- Gunpowder tea
- a species of fine green tea, each leaf of which is rolled into a small ball or pellet.