Definition

A big sailing ship with three masts, used mainly from the 15th to the 17th century for trade or military purposes, especially by Spain.

Example

The museum displayed a model of a galleon that sailed the seas centuries ago.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a model of a galleon?

Yeah, they are really impressive with their large sails.

I read that they were used for trade and also in battles.

Exactly! They were such an important part of maritime history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Galleon → The word 'galleon' originates from the Spanish 'galeón', which is derived from 'galera' (meaning galley). A galleon is a large sailing ship that evolved from the galley, primarily used for trade and warfare during the 16th to 18th centuries.

Memory Tip

Imagine a large ship that evolved from a smaller 'galley' — that's how you can remember that a 'galleon' is a big sailing ship.

Visually Confused Words