powder keg

The term "powder keg" originates from barrels used to store gunpowder and is now commonly used to describe highly volatile situations.

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Definition

(technical, historical)A small, durable container used for storing gunpowder.

In the 18th century, soldiers had to handle a powder keg with extreme care to prevent accidental explosions.

(metaphorical)A situation or place that is highly unstable and could erupt into conflict or violence at any moment.

The political tensions in the region have turned it into a powder keg.
The crowded and angry crowd outside the courthouse was a powder keg waiting to explode.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "powder keg":