a safety device consisting of a strip of wire that melts and breaks an electric circuit if the current exceeds a safe level, a cord or tube filled with explosives, used to detonate a bomb or other explosive device, join or blend to form a single entity

fuse box, burn the fuse at both ends, trip the fuse

short fuse, light the fuse, blow a fuse

Formal and Informal Expressions of fuse

In different contexts, you can replace 'fuse' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'link, connection' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'join, blend' is a commonplace synonym.

fuse: Explore its Definition & Usage

fuse Definition

1a safety device consisting of a strip of wire that melts and breaks an electric circuit if the current exceeds a safe level
2a cord or tube filled with explosives, used to detonate a bomb or other explosive device
3join or blend to form a single entity

Using fuse: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "fuse" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The fuse blew when I plugged in the hair dryer.
Example
The bomb was detonated by a long fuse.
Example
The two companies decided to fuse together to create a larger corporation.

fuse Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for fuse

Antonyms for fuse

Idioms Using fuse

fuse box
a box containing the fuses for the electrical circuits in a building or vehicle
Example
The fuse box is located in the basement.
burn the fuse at both ends
to work or play excessively hard without enough rest or relaxation
Example
She's been burning the fuse at both ends trying to finish her thesis on time.
trip the fuse
to cause a circuit breaker to switch off by overloading the electrical circuit
Example
The power tools tripped the fuse and we had to reset it.

Phrases with fuse

short fuse
a quick temper or tendency to become angry easily
Example
Be careful what you say around him - he has a short fuse.
light the fuse
to initiate or start something that will lead to a big event or outcome
Example
The announcement of the new product line lit the fuse for a surge in sales.
blow a fuse
to become very angry or lose one's temper
Example
He blew a fuse when he found out his car had been towed.

Origins of fuse

from Old French 'fusée', meaning 'spindleful of thread'

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Summary: fuse in Brief

The term 'fuse' [fyooz] refers to a safety device that breaks an electric circuit if the current exceeds a safe level, or a cord or tube filled with explosives used to detonate a bomb. It can also mean to join or blend to form a single entity, as in 'The two companies decided to fuse together to create a larger corporation.' 'Fuse' extends into phrases like 'short fuse,' denoting a quick temper, and idioms like 'burn the fuse at both ends,' implying excessive work or play.