Navy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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navy

[ˈneɪvi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military forces

The navy is the branch of a country's armed forces that fights on or in the sea.

Synonyms

fleet, maritime force, naval forces.

Examples of usage

  • The navy ships are patrolling the coast.
  • He joined the navy after graduating from college.
Context #2 | Noun

dark blue color

Navy is a dark blue color, which is often used in uniforms and clothing.

Synonyms

dark blue, navy blue.

Examples of usage

  • She wore a navy dress to the party.
  • The walls of the room were painted in navy blue.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'navy' comes from the Latin 'navigare,' which means 'to sail.' This shows how ancient people traveled over water.
  • Navies have existed for thousands of years, with one of the first recorded navies from ancient Egypt around 3000 BC.
  • The British Royal Navy, established in the 16th century, was once the largest military force in the world, influencing global naval practices.

Cultural Significance

  • Naval uniforms, especially the dress blues, represent pride and tradition, often worn during ceremonies and events.
  • Movies and books often romanticize navy life, portraying sailors as heroes in epic sea battles or adventures.
  • Some countries celebrate a Navy Day to honor their naval forces, showcasing ships and hosting events in coastal cities.

Technology and Warfare

  • Modern navies use advanced technology like submarines, aircraft carriers, and unmanned drones for missions and reconnaissance.
  • Naval warfare has evolved significantly, with strategies now incorporating cyber warfare and satellite communication.
  • The use of naval blockades has been a key tactic throughout history, stopping supplies to enemy nations without direct combat.

Science and Environment

  • Navies play an essential role in oceanography, contributing to research on marine ecosystems and climate change.
  • Many naval operations focus on environmental protection, such as combating illegal fishing and pollution in international waters.
  • Some navies engage in search and rescue missions, helping to save lives in maritime disasters and safeguarding sailors during storms.

Sports and Recreation

  • Sailing clubs often have naval-style races, emphasizing skills learned in real navies, fostering teamwork and strategy.
  • Naval-themed sports events, like military sailing competitions, encourage camaraderie and skills among service members.
  • Some countries have developed navy sports teams in competitive sailing, rugby, and athletics, promoting fitness and teamwork.

Origin of 'navy'

The word 'navy' comes from the Old French word 'navie' which means 'fleet of ships'. The concept of naval forces dates back to ancient times, with civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans having specialized ships for warfare at sea. The modern navy as a branch of the military developed during the age of sail in the 17th century, with countries establishing dedicated naval fleets to protect their interests and engage in naval warfare.


Word Frequency Rank

At #5,466 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.