Definition

A type of large battleship that is heavily armed and designed for naval warfare, typically equipped with powerful guns.

Example

The navy launched a new dreadnought that was the most advanced ship in its fleet.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new dreadnought battleship they launched?

Yeah, it's supposed to be one of the most advanced ships ever built!

I can't believe how powerful these dreadnought ships are getting.

Right? It's like they're redefining naval warfare completely.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dreadnought is formed from "dread" (from Old English "dræd", meaning fear) and "nought" (from Old English "nōwiht", meaning nothing). The term originally referred to a ship that was not afraid of anything, particularly in battle, hence a ship that could withstand or face any threat.

Memory Tip

Think of 'dread' as fear and 'nought' as nothing — together they describe something that has no fear, like a powerful ship that faces all challenges.

Visually Confused Words