Meaning & Definition of Cannon in English
Cannon
A large, heavy piece of artillery that fires solid projectiles.
Pronunciation:
/ˈkæn.ən/Part of Speech:
nounPlural:
cannonsDetailed Definitions
Definition: A large, mounted firearm that is capable of firing heavy projectiles over long distances.
Example Sentence: The soldiers prepared the cannon for the upcoming battle.
Definition: A device that shoots projectiles, often used in warfare.
Example Sentence: The cannon on the ship was used to repel enemy vessels.
Definition: Figuratively, a powerful or dominating force.
Example Sentence: Her argument was a cannon of persuasion in the debate.
Etymology
Origin: Middle English 'kanoun', from Old Italian 'cannone', meaning 'large tube'.
Synonyms
Common Phrases and Expressions
- cannon fodder: Soldiers regarded as expendable in warfare.
- to fire a cannon: To make a loud noise or to launch something loudly.
- cannon ball: A spherical projectile fired from a cannon.
Translations
- Spanish: cañón
- French: canon
- German: Kanone
- Russian: пушка
Related Words
- artillery: A class of weapons that fire munitions far beyond the range and power of infantry firearms.
- mortar: A short, portable cannon used to fire shells at high angles.
- projectile: An object propelled through the air, particularly one fired from a weapon.
Slang Meanings of cannon
Meaning: To be an authority in a specific field.
Example Sentence: He was the cannon on that topic during the conference.
Meaning: A term used in gaming to refer to heavy weaponry or characters that deal massive damage.
Example Sentence: That character is a total cannon in this game.