the bomb

Etymology
Attested in reference to nuclear weapons or the capacity to use them since 1932; see quotations, below. As slang for something excellent, the phrase is attested since the 1960s; compare go down a bomb, UK theatre slang during the 1950s meaning “be a major success”. For further etymology see.

Noun

 * 1)  The atomic bomb; the capability to launch a nuclear attack.
 * 2)  A success; something excellent.
 * 1)  A success; something excellent.
 * 1)  A success; something excellent.
 * 1)  A success; something excellent.
 * 1)  A success; something excellent.

Usage notes

 * The two diametrical slang meanings are distinguished by the article. For “a success”, the phrase is generally the bomb. Otherwise bomb can mean “a failure”. (cf. the shit)