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Gunboats Meaning in English

word · lemma: gunboat

ˈɡənˌboʊts
GUN-bohts
ɡˈʌnbəʊts
GUN-bohts

Definition

Small, armed naval boats designed for warfare, especially used close to shore or on rivers. They are equipped with guns and are used for patrol or attack missions.

Usage & Nuances

"Gunboats" is a formal/naval term. Most common in military or historical contexts, often referring to conflicts in the 19th and early 20th centuries ('gunboat diplomacy' refers to using military threats). Rarely used in everyday conversation unless discussing war or history.

Example Sentences

The navy used gunboats to protect the harbor.

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There were three gunboats on the river during the battle.

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Old gunboats can be seen in the naval museum.

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Back then, European powers sent gunboats up the river to impress local rulers.

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The arrival of the gunboats changed the mood in the entire town.

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He studied the history of gunboats and their role in early 20th-century politics.

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