Fizzle

Fizzle (nuclear explosion)

A fizzle occurs when the detonation of a device for creating a nuclear explosion grossly fails to meet its expected yield. The device still detonates, but the detonation is much weaker than anticipated. The cause(s) for the failure might be linked to improper design, poor construction, or lack of expertise. All countries that have had a nuclear weapons testing program have experienced some fizzles. A fizzle can spread radioactive material throughout the surrounding area, involve a partial fission reaction of the fissile material, or both. For practical purposes, a fizzle can still have considerable explosive yield when compared to conventional weapons.

Luke's Fireworks Fizzle

Luke's Fireworks Fizzle is a 1916 American short comedy film starring Harold Lloyd.

fizzle

Verb

1. To sputter or hiss.
2. To decay or die off to nothing; to burn out; to end less successfully than previously hoped.

Noun

1. A spluttering or hissing sound.
2. Failure of an exploding nuclear bomb to meet its expected yield during testing.