An expendable device for opening an electric circuit when the current therein becomes excessive, containing a section of conductor which melts when the current through it exceeds a rated value for a definite period of time. Also known as electric fuse.

1. Also spelled fuze.

2. A device with explosive components designed to initiate a train of fire or detonation in an item of ammunition by an action such as hydrostatic pressure, electrical energy, chemical energy, impact, or a combination of these.

3. A nonexplosive device designed to initiate an explosion in an item of ammunition by an action such as continuous or pulsating electromagnetic waves or acceleration.