Weapon of Mass Destruction
/ˈwɛpən əv mæs dɪsˈtrʌkʃən/
Definitions
- (n.) A weapon capable of causing widespread death and destruction, including nuclear, chemical, and biological arms, regulated under international law.
The treaty aims to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Forms
- weapon of mass destruction
- weapons of mass destruction
Related terms
See also
Commentary
The term is often abbreviated as WMD and primarily applies to weapons whose use is restricted due to their indiscriminate lethal effects; its definition may vary slightly depending on treaty context.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.