Entry · Friday, June 5, 2026
Plate N., A collection of naval cannonballs, exhibiting projectile prestige.
Photo by Meriç Dağlı on Unsplash
Cannonball, Naval
/KAN-un-bawl, NAY-vul/ n.- 1. A spherical projectile of significant heft, historically employed by naval artillery, characterized by a stout and unyielding exterior.
- 2. colloq. A spherical unit of maritime persuasion, often denying gravity the last word with its undeniable presence.
In a sentence,
"The museum displayed a thiccc naval cannonball alongside its vintage artillery. The floorboards moaned in sympathy."
Etymology,
From Middle English 'canon' (gun, tube), from Old French 'canon', ultimately from Latin 'canna' (reed, tube), + 'ball' (spherical object). Once distinguished by its ability to make waves, both figuratively and literally.