turret

noun

tur·​ret ˈtər-ət 

ˈtə-rət,

ˈtu̇r-ət 

1

: a little tower

specifically : an ornamental structure at an angle of a larger structure

2

a(1)

: a revolving armored structure on a warship that protects one or more guns mounted within it

(2)

: a similar upper structure usually for one gun on a tank

(3)

: a gunner's fixed or movable enclosure in an airplane

b

: a tall building usually moved on wheels and formerly used for carrying soldiers and equipment for breaching or scaling a wall

3

a

: a pivoted and revolvable holder in a machine tool

b

: a device (as on a microscope or a television camera) holding several lenses

Examples of turret in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The park's centerpiece castle was also used to show them and, thanks to some technical wizardry, the projections appeared to be flat despite being beamed on to protrusions, balustrades and turrets. —Caroline Reid, Forbes, 16 Aug. 2024

The Victorian mansion, set in Dee Valley, has 18 bedrooms and four suites, including turret rooms that best showcase the building’s historic features. —Emily Zemler, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Aug. 2024

The custom mansion — with old-world flair, steep-peaked roofs, a turret and an asking price of $6.45 million — is nestled on a 4.25-acre lot adorned with extensive landscaping and tranquil views. —Brendel Hightower, Detroit Free Press, 24 July 2024

Specific features such as gables and turrets may also be a location for an alternate, stand-out siding selection. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English touret, from Anglo-French turette, tourette, diminutive of tur, tour tower — more at tower

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

turret

noun

tur·​ret ˈtər-ət  ˈtə-rət 

tu̇r-ət

1

: a little tower often at a corner of a building

2

: a low usually rotating structure (as in a tank, warship, or airplane) in which guns are mounted