broken arrow

Definitions

1. 1

   A callout marker that consists of a dashed line with an arrowhead.

   • A broken arrow A - - -> B indicates that an occasional result of Section A is used in Section B, but that Section B is essentially independent of Section A.
   • Note that the uptake of pertechnetate (i.e., darkness) is comparable between the two thyroid lobes (solid arrow) and the salivary glands (broken arrow).
2. 2

   Any of a series of accidental nuclear events in the Cold War, involving nuclear weapons…

   Any of a series of accidental nuclear events in the Cold War, involving nuclear weapons or warheads fallen from aircrafts, which could have triggered a nuclear war.

3. 3

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically

   Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see broken, arrow.

4. ›+ 3 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      An accidental event that involves nuclear weapons or nuclear components but does not…

      An accidental event that involves nuclear weapons or nuclear components but does not create the risk of nuclear war.

      • In the US, the code name for a serious nuclear weapons incident is "Broken Arrow". It is US policy neither to confirm nor deny the existence of nuclear weapons at any specific location; this also applies to Broken Arrow incidents.
   2. 5

      A code phrase indicating that a ground unit is facing imminent destruction from enemy…

      A code phrase indicating that a ground unit is facing imminent destruction from enemy attack and all available air forces within range are to provide air support immediately.

      • The FAC urgently sends over his radio a cry for help: "Broken Arrow! Broken Arrow!' His message unleashes all available close air support in South Vietnam on a priority basis.
      • Before Caras could respond, the General threw down the mike, turned to his second and said, "Get them all the air support we have, everything. This is Broken Arrow"
   3. 6

      A city in Tulsa County and Wagoner County, Oklahoma, United States.

The neighborhood