Obus (en. Shell)

/o.by/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

A shell is an explosive projectile fired by artillery.

The shell exploded on impact.

L'obus a explosé à l'impact.

A shell can be designed to penetrate armor.

This type of shell is used against tanks.

Ce type d'obus est utilisé contre les tanks.

There are different calibers of shells.

The gunner loaded a 155 mm shell.

L'artilleur a chargé un obus de 155 mm.

The word 'obus' comes from the Latin 'opus', meaning 'work', in reference to the effectiveness of these projectiles.

to fire a shell

To launch an explosive projectile.

tirer un obus

to have a shell in the belly

To be in a situation of imminent danger.

avoir un obus dans le ventre

artillery

A set of artillery pieces used in warfare.

artillerie

ammunition

Equipment intended to be used in a weapon, including shells.

munition

cannon

A large piece of artillery that fires projectiles.

canon

A shell can refer to a very determined person.

Look at him, he's a shell, he never gives up.

Regarde-le, c'est un obus, il n'abandonne jamais.

In a familiar context, it can mean a big surprise.

When he won, it was a shell for everyone.

Quand il a gagné, c'était un obus pour tout le monde.