paravane

noun

para·​vane ˈper-ə-ˌvān How to pronounce paravane (audio)
ˈpa-rə-
: a torpedo-shaped protective device with serrate teeth in its forward end used underwater by a ship in mined areas to sever the moorings of mines

Word History

Etymology

probably from French para- warding off (as in parachute) + English vane

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of paravane was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near paravane

Cite this Entry

“Paravane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paravane. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!