improvised explosive device

• IED (abbreviation)

As a descriptive term, appearing in the early 20th century. In the narrower sense describing weapons of irregulars and terrorists, popularized in the British Army during the Troubles and in the US during the Iraq War.

improvised explosive device (plural improvised explosive devices)

1. An unconventional or amateur explosive weapon made from nonmilitary components, especially one used by guerrillas, commandos or terrorists.

• roadside bomb