Admiral Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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admiral
[ˈæd.mə.rəl ]
Definitions
naval officer
A high-ranking naval officer, specifically one of the senior officers of the US Navy or Coast Guard.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| admiral |
Used to refer to a high-ranking naval officer who oversees a fleet or large naval unit. Should be used in formal or professional contexts related to the navy.
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| commander |
Used to describe an officer in charge of a group of soldiers, ships, or military operation. Can be used in military or paramilitary contexts.
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| captain |
Can refer to an officer of middle rank in the navy or an army, or to the person in command of a ship or aircraft. Suitable for various formal and informal contexts.
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| officer |
A general term for someone holding a position of authority in the military, police, or other organizations. Can be used in a wide range of formal and informal settings.
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Examples of usage
- The admiral oversaw the fleet's deployment.
- The admiral was responsible for making strategic decisions.
insect
A colorful butterfly or moth with a wingspan of about 8 inches and a distinctive pattern of bands and spots.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| admiral |
In the context of butterflies, especially referring to the 'Red Admiral' butterfly, it is used scientifically or by entomologists to describe a specific species known for its striking colors. Used in more casual conversation primarily by nature enthusiasts or in educational settings.
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| butterfly |
This term is used in everyday language to describe any of the various species of insects with large, often brightly colored wings. It is commonly used in discussions about nature, biology, and sometimes metaphorically to describe a person who is outgoing and socially active.
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| moth |
This term refers to insects similar to butterflies but typically nocturnal and less brightly colored. It is used in discussions about nature and entomology. Moths are often associated with a negative connotation, especially when found indoors since they can damage fabrics.
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Examples of usage
- The admiral butterfly is known for its striking appearance.
- The admiral moth is a rare species.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Military History
- Admirals often lead significant naval battles, with famous figures like Admiral Nelson, who played a crucial role in the Napoleonic Wars.
- In the U.S. Navy, the rank of Admiral is the highest, equivalent to a four-star general in the Army.
Cultural References
- In popular culture, characters like Admiral Ackbar from Star Wars have turned the title into a recognizable pop icon.
- Admirals have been portrayed in books and movies as both heroic leaders and conflicted characters, showcasing the complexities of leadership.
Science & Navigation
- Admirals often play a critical role in naval strategy during wartime, utilizing advanced navigation and communication technologies.
- Modern navies use admirals to oversee complex operations that integrate air, land, and sea forces.
Women in Leadership
- In recent history, women have increasingly taken on the role of admiral, with figures like Michelle Howard becoming the first female four-star admiral in the U.S. Navy.
- The inclusion of women in high-ranking naval positions has reshaped perceptions of military leadership and capability.
Origin of 'admiral'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Arabic 'amir-al' which means 'commander of the' and went through Middle Latin before becoming 'admiral' in English.
- In the 16th century, the term was used in English to refer to the commander of a naval fleet, cementing its meaning in maritime contexts.
The term 'admiral' originated from the Arabic word 'amīr al-bahr', which means 'commander of the sea'. It was adopted into Latin as 'admiralis' and later into Old French as 'amiral'. The title was used in various European navies to denote a high-ranking naval officer in command of a fleet.