Cannonball: meaning, definitions and examples
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cannonball
[ ˈkænənbɔːl ]
artillery projectile
A cannonball is a solid projectile made of metal or stone that is fired from a cannon. Historically, it was used in siege warfare and naval battles, designed to inflict damage upon walls, buildings, and enemy ships. With advancements in weaponry, cannonballs have become obsolete but remain significant in historical discussions of military technology.
Synonyms
projectile, shell, shot.
Examples of usage
- The soldiers prepared the cannon and loaded a cannonball.
- Cannonballs were a common sight on battlefields during the 18th century.
- During the reenactment, they showcased how cannonballs were shot from cannons.
- The museum displayed several types of cannonballs used in various wars.
Translations
Translations of the word "cannonball" in other languages:
🇵🇹 bola de canhão
🇮🇳 गोलाबारी
🇩🇪 Kanonenball
🇮🇩 bola meriam
🇺🇦 снаряд
🇵🇱 kulka armatnia
🇯🇵 砲弾
🇫🇷 boulet de canon
🇪🇸 bola de cañón
🇹🇷 top mermisi
🇰🇷 포탄
🇸🇦 كرة مدفع
🇨🇿 kanónová koule
🇸🇰 kanónová guľa
🇨🇳 炮弹
🇸🇮 topovski krogla
🇮🇸 fallbyssukúlan
🇰🇿 зеңбірек шар
🇬🇪 ყარანული ბურთი
🇦🇿 top topu
🇲🇽 bola de cañón
Etymology
The word 'cannonball' combines 'cannon' and 'ball.' The term 'cannon' comes from the Middle French word 'canun,' which refers to a large tube or pipe and itself may derive from the Latin 'canna,' meaning reed or tube. The use of the word 'ball' traces back to its Old English origin 'beall,' meaning a round object. Cannonballs began to be utilized in the early medieval period, as cannons were invented and adapted for battle. By the 15th century, cannonballs were made from iron and lead, taking various forms such as spherical or multi-faceted designs suited for their intended purpose. The proliferation of these projectiles played a significant role in shaping artillery tactics and warfare strategies.