Artillery Meaning and Definition
Artillery
Pronunciation
/ˈɑːrtɪlri/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of military weapon, typically consisting of a large-caliber gun, howitzer, or rocket system, used to attack enemy positions from a distance.
Examples
- The artillery was used to bombard the enemy’s strongholds.
- The army deployed its artillery to support the infantry.
- The sound of gunfire and artillery boomed in the distance.
- The artillery team worked tirelessly to prepare for the battle.
Synonyms
- Bombardment
- Gunfire
Antonyms
- Peacekeeping
- Nonviolent
Etymology
The word “artillery” originated from the Italian word “artiglieria,” meaning “artillery.” The term was adopted into Middle English as “artillerie,” and has been used in English since the 14th century.
Usage Notes
Artillery is often used in military contexts, but it can also refer to the art of using such weapons. For example, “The general studied artillery tactics to prepare for the battle.”
Cultural References
Artillery has appeared in numerous films, books, and video games, often used as a symbol of military power and strategy. Examples include the novel “All Quiet on the Western Front” by Erich Maria Remarque and the film “War Horse” by Steven Spielberg.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Artillery is the backbone of the army.” This phrase highlights the importance of artillery in modern warfare.
Related Words or Phrases
Weaponry, gun, cannon, rocket, mortar
Collocations
artillery support, artillery fire, artillery barrage, artillery piece
Frequency of Use
Artillery is a relatively rare word in modern language, but it is still commonly used in military and historical contexts.
Common Misspellings
Artillerty, Artillerly, Artillerey, Artillerrie