paravane

noun

para·vane ˈper-ə-ˌvān

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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Paravane.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paravane. Accessed 29 Jan. 2023.

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