Cannonball: meaning, definitions and examples

Historical Origins

• The word 'cannonball' comes from the 'cannon', a powerful weapon used in battles from the 14th century onwards.
• Cannonballs were originally made of stone before they became shaped metal projectiles used in warfare.
• The design of cannonballs evolved over time, including hollow versions that could be filled with explosives.

Pop Culture

• Cannonballs are often portrayed in movies and cartoons as dramatic weapons that explode on impact.
• In the sport of diving, a 'cannonball' refers to a jump where a diver curls up, creating a big splash, mimicking the heavy cannonball.
• The term has been used in various video games and comics to depict explosive action and adventure.

Science

• The idea of a cannonball follows the principles of physics, particularly gravity and projectile motion.
• A well-formed cannonball is aerodynamic, which helps it travel further when shot from a cannon.
• When dropped in water, a cannonball creates a large splash due to its mass and shape, displacing a lot of water.

Art

• Artists throughout history have depicted battles involving cannons and cannonballs, showcasing their importance in warfare.
• Cannonballs have appeared in various art forms, symbolizing destruction and conflict in modern and classical works.
• In sculptures and installations, cannonballs are sometimes used to represent historical events or critiques of war.

Sports & Recreation

• Cannonball jumping, especially into a pool, is a common fun activity that kids enjoy, emphasizing making big splashes.
• The cannonball dive is a diving technique that allows beginners to enter the water safely and excitingly.
• Competitions sometimes feature cannonball jumps, where the size of the splash is judged for fun.