Shipwreck: meaning, definitions and examples
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shipwreck
[ ˈʃɪpˌrɛk ]
maritime disaster
A shipwreck refers to the sinking or destruction of a ship, often resulting from a collision, storm, or any other maritime disaster. Shipwrecks can occur due to navigational errors, faulty equipment, or adverse weather conditions. The term is also used to describe the remains of a ship that has wrecked on the sea floor or on a shore.
Synonyms
capsize, maritime disaster, sinking, wreck.
Examples of usage
- The shipwreck was discovered off the coast.
- Many survivors were found after the shipwreck.
- Archaeologists study shipwrecks to uncover historical artifacts.
- The storm caused several shipwrecks this season.
Translations
Translations of the word "shipwreck" in other languages:
🇵🇹 naufrágio
🇮🇳 जहाज़ डूबना
🇩🇪 Schiffswrack
🇮🇩 bangkai kapal
🇺🇦 корабельна аварія
🇵🇱 wrak statku
🇯🇵 難破船
🇫🇷 épave
🇪🇸 naufragio
🇹🇷 gemide kaza
🇰🇷 난파선
🇸🇦 غرق سفينة
🇨🇿 námořní ztroskotání
🇸🇰 loď ztroskotanie
🇨🇳 沉船
🇸🇮 brodolom
🇮🇸 skipsslys
🇰🇿 кемеде апат
🇬🇪 გემის ავარია
🇦🇿 gəmi qəzası
🇲🇽 naufragio
Etymology
The word 'shipwreck' has its origins in the Old English word 'sceppian,' meaning 'to shape' or 'to form,' and 'wreccan,' which means 'to throw.' This combination emphasizes the notion of a ship being thrown or shaped by the forces of nature. The term gradually evolved during the Middle Ages as maritime activities expanded, particularly among seafaring cultures. By the 14th century, 'shipwreck' had entered the English lexicon with a clear connotation of disasters involving ships. With the advancement of navigation and shipbuilding techniques, the term began to encompass various types of maritime incidents, marking significant advancements in trade and exploration. Over the centuries, 'shipwreck' has not only referenced the literal sinking of ships but also held cultural significance in literature, representing the struggles against nature and the unknown.