Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
powder-keg
noun
/ˈpaʊdəˌkɛɡ/
Definition
A powder-keg is a container for holding gunpowder or explosives, commonly used in the past.
Examples
- The political tensions in the country turned it into a powder-keg, ready to burst at any moment.
- The factory was once a powder-keg for workplace accidents due to its lack of safety measures.
Meaning
Metaphorically, a powder-keg refers to a situation that is highly volatile and likely to explode into conflict or violence.
Synonyms
- explosive situation
- tinderbox
- volatile state
