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Trireme: meaning, definitions and examples

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trireme

 

[ˈtraɪriːm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

ancient ship

A trireme is an ancient type of warship that was used by maritime powers such as the ancient Greeks and Romans. Characterized by its three rows of oars on each side, the trireme was designed for speed and maneuverability. This vessel played a crucial role in naval warfare during antiquity, allowing for swift assaults and retreats. Triremes were typically manned by a crew of skilled rowers and were often equipped with a bronze ram to break enemy ships. Their tactical use in battles significantly influenced the outcomes of many historic confrontations on the seas.

Synonyms

ancient vessel, galley, warship.

Examples of usage

  • The Athenian navy relied heavily on triremes during the Peloponnesian War.
  • Triremes were known for their speed and agility in naval battles.
  • In ancient times, triremes were a symbol of naval power.
  • Modern historians study triremes to understand ancient military tactics.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'triremis,' meaning 'three-oared,' combining 'tri-' (three) and '-remus' (oar).
  • This type of ship first appeared in the Mediterranean around the 7th century BCE, particularly among Greek city-states.

Historical Significance

  • Triremes were essential in naval battles, giving ancient powers like Athens a significant advantage due to their speed and agility.
  • The famous Battle of Salamis in 480 BCE showcased triremes' effectiveness against larger enemy fleets, marking a pivotal moment in the Greco-Persian Wars.

Construction and Design

  • Triremes were constructed using light materials, like pine, allowing for quick maneuverability and reduced water resistance.
  • The ship had three tiers of oars, with rowers positioned in separate compartments, enabling faster rowing rates and coordinated attacks.

Cultural References

  • In many ancient Greek art pieces, triremes are depicted in battle scenes, reflecting their importance to maritime culture and warfare.
  • Modern literature and films often romanticize ancient naval battles featuring triremes, highlighting bravery and strategy.

Technical Innovations

  • The trireme featured innovative designs such as a ram at the front, allowing it to pierce the hulls of enemy ships.
  • The use of a crew trained to row in unison maximized speed, which was revolutionary at the time of its use.

Translations

Translations of the word "trireme" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trirreme

🇮🇳 त्रिरेम

🇩🇪 Triere

🇮🇩 trireme

🇺🇦 трієр

🇵🇱 trirem

🇯🇵 三段櫂船

🇫🇷 trirème

🇪🇸 trirreme

🇹🇷 trireme

🇰🇷 삼단 노선

🇸🇦 تريريم

🇨🇿 triréma

🇸🇰 triréma

🇨🇳 三层划船

🇸🇮 trirema

🇮🇸 trireme

🇰🇿 триер

🇬🇪 ტრირემე

🇦🇿 trireme

🇲🇽 trirreme

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,182, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.