Agency Dictionary

Shrapnel

nounPronunciation: /ˈʃræp.nəl/

In Portuguese: Estilhaço

Writing & Narrative

What does “Shrapnel” mean?

Fragments of a bomb, shell, or other object thrown out by an explosion. In narrative storytelling, it symbolizes the sudden traumatic scatter of destructive forces.

Etymology

Named after British army officer Henry Shrapnel (1761-1842), who invented an artillery shell designed to scatter metal fragments over a wide area before impact. His surname became the common term for all explosive fragments after the invention was widely adopted in military use.

Usage note

Shrapnel in everyday use refers to any explosive fragments, though the term originally named a specific type of artillery shell invented by Henry Shrapnel.

Synonyms

fragments
shards
splinters

Usage examples

In a full echo of confusing sounds and blurred vision, a high-pitched scratch roared around his mind as dust and shrapnel scattered in all directions.

Source editions

Where this entry comes from in the Agency editorial.

Issue.14 - ZephyrApril 30, 2023Read the edition

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