Warship: meaning, definitions and examples

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warship

 

[ˈwɔːrʃɪp ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

naval vessel

A warship is a naval vessel used by a country's military for combat or defense. It is equipped with weapons and technology to engage in warfare at sea.

Synonyms

battleship, cruiser, destroyer.

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Word Description / Examples
warship

General term for any naval ship designed for warfare. Used when referring to military ships collectively or when the specific type isn't important.

  • The fleet comprised several types of warships.
  • A warship was spotted patrolling the coast.
battleship

Large, heavily armored and armed warship designed for head-on battles. Use when emphasizing the ship's size and firepower.

  • The battleship was the pride of the navy.
  • In World War II, battleships played a pivotal role in sea battles.
destroyer

Fast, maneuverable, and lightly armored warship designed for protecting larger vessels. Often used in anti-submarine warfare.

  • The destroyer was assigned to protect the aircraft carrier.
  • Destroyers are essential for modern naval strategies due to their speed and agility.
cruiser

Medium-sized warship that is faster and more mobile than a battleship but less heavily armored. Often used for escort duties and reconnaissance.

  • The cruiser escorted the convoy through dangerous waters.
  • A cruiser is more versatile and can be deployed in various missions.

Examples of usage

  • The navy deployed several warships to patrol the waters.
  • The warship fired warning shots at the approaching enemy vessel.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'warship' comes from combining 'war', meaning conflict, and 'ship', referring to a vessel.
  • Historically, 'warship' has been used since the 16th century to describe military vessels.
  • The term reflects a significant evolution in naval technology and the importance of sea power.

Historical Significance

  • During the Age of Sail, most warships were wooden and utilized sail power, changing the course of naval battles.
  • The first steam-powered warship was the HMS Warrior, launched in 1860, marking a pivotal moment in naval engineering.
  • World Wars saw massive advancements in warship technology, including aircraft carriers and submarines, altering naval warfare.

Pop Culture

  • Warships often feature prominently in movies and video games, symbolizing power and strategy, as seen in series like 'Battleship.'
  • Naval battles have inspired countless novels, showcasing heroism and tactical genius, such as in Patrick O'Brian's 'Aubrey/Maturin' series.
  • Comic books and cartoons often depict fantastical warships, turning them into symbols of adventure and exploration.

Science & Technology

  • Modern warships use advanced technology, including radar and missile systems, to enhance combat effectiveness.
  • Naval engineering research focuses on stealth technology, allowing warships to evade detection.
  • Warships are often equipped with automated systems, reducing the need for crew and increasing efficiency.

Psychology

  • The design and function of warships evoke feelings of power and safety among the nations that control them.
  • Naval forces are often viewed as a status symbol for countries, influencing public perception and national pride.
  • Learning about historical wars and battles fought at sea through warships fosters a deeper understanding of conflict in human history.

Translations

Translations of the word "warship" in other languages:

🇵🇹 navio de guerra

🇮🇳 युद्धपोत

🇩🇪 Kriegsschiff

🇮🇩 kapal perang

🇺🇦 військовий корабель

🇵🇱 okręt wojenny

🇯🇵 軍艦

🇫🇷 navire de guerre

🇪🇸 buque de guerra

🇹🇷 savaş gemisi

🇰🇷 전투함

🇸🇦 سفينة حربية

🇨🇿 válečná loď

🇸🇰 vojnová loď

🇨🇳 军舰

🇸🇮 vojna ladja

🇮🇸 herskip

🇰🇿 соғыс кемесі

🇬🇪 საომარი გემი

🇦🇿 hərbi gəmi

🇲🇽 buque de guerra