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Ordnance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ordnance

[ˈɔːrdnəns ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military equipment

Ordnance refers to military weapons, ammunition, and equipment. It includes artillery, guns, bombs, missiles, and other military hardware used in combat.

Synonyms

armaments, munitions, weapons.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ordnance

Used in a military context to refer to heavy guns, artillery, and military supplies, including ammunition and equipment for war.

  • The army's ordnance was inspected before the battle.
  • The base had a large stockpile of ordnance.
munitions

Specifically refers to military weapons, ammunition, bombs, and other explosive tools. Often used in the context of supply and logistics.

  • The supply convoy was loaded with munitions for the front lines.
  • They located a hidden cache of munitions.
armaments

Generally refers to military weapons and equipment as a collective whole, often used in formal or strategic discussions.

  • The country invested heavily in new armaments.
  • There was an inspection of the armaments before deployment.
weapons

A general term for any tool or device designed to cause harm or damage, including guns, knives, and explosives. Used in both civilian and military contexts.

  • He was found carrying illegal weapons.
  • The soldiers were equipped with advanced weapons.

Examples of usage

  • The army stockpiled a large amount of ordnance for the upcoming mission.
  • The navy conducted a training exercise to test the effectiveness of their ordnance.
Context #2 | Noun

naval terminology

In naval terms, ordnance specifically refers to the mounted guns on a warship. These guns are used for naval warfare and defense.

Synonyms

naval guns, ship armament.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ordnance

Same as the first context, as 'ordnance' refers broadly to military weapons and equipment.

  • The armory stocked a wide array of ordnance for the soldiers.
  • Engineers were tasked with maintaining the ordnance.
naval guns

Specific to large-caliber guns mounted on warships, often used in naval battles.

  • The naval guns were ready for the upcoming sea engagement.
  • During the World War II battle, naval guns played a critical role.
ship armament

Refers to the complete array of weapons and defensive tools installed on a ship, including missiles, guns, and other equipment.

  • The ship armament was upgraded with the latest technology.
  • Before heading into battle, the crew checked all ship armament.

Examples of usage

  • The battleship was equipped with powerful ordnance to engage enemy vessels.
  • The sailors trained diligently to operate the ship's ordnance effectively.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In historical battles, ordnance was crucial as it included cannons and artillery, changing the outcome of conflicts.
  • The establishment of ordnance depots in the 18th century allowed for better storage and distribution of arms and munitions.
  • During World War II, innovations in ordnance technology greatly influenced military strategies and outcomes.

Science and Technology

  • Modern ordnance involves complex engineering, including GPS-guided munitions that increase accuracy and effectiveness.
  • Research in ordnance also focuses on safety, developing techniques to handle explosives without risk.
  • The development of ordnance is now complemented by electronic warfare systems, integrating technology in combat.

Cultural Representation

  • Ordnance has been depicted in many films and books, often symbolizing both the power and the dangers of warfare.
  • Military parades often showcase ordnance, drawing public attention to a nation's military capabilities and history.
  • In video games, ordnance systems are often featured, allowing players to explore military tactics through simulation.

Psychology

  • The use of ordnance in conflict can influence public perception of warfare, shifting views on military necessity or morality.
  • Studies show that the imagery and language around ordnance can evoke strong emotional responses, shaping cultural narratives about war.
  • Understanding ordnance is essential in discussions about defense and security, affecting societal views on peace and war.

Origin of 'ordnance'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'ordnance' comes from the Old French term 'ordenance', meaning arrangement or order, highlighting its military significance.
  • It was first used in English in the late Middle Ages, around the 14th century, to refer to military supplies.
  • Over time, the term evolved to include not just supplies, but also the systems and technologies surrounding military equipment.

The word 'ordnance' has its origins in Middle English, derived from Old French 'ordeneance' and ultimately from Latin 'ordinantia' meaning 'arrangement' or 'ordering'. Initially used in reference to military provisions, it evolved to encompass a broader range of military equipment and weapons over time.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,471, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.