Definition

A small boat that is equipped with weapons and used for military purposes.

Example

The navy deployed a gunboat to patrol the coastal waters.

Conversation

Did you hear about the old gunboat they found in the harbor?

Yeah, I read something about it; it's been there for ages!

I wonder what stories that gunboat could tell if it could talk.

It must have seen some exciting naval battles back in the day!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gunboat → The word is formed from "gun" (from Old English "gonne", meaning a type of firearm) and "boat" (from Old English "bat", meaning a small vessel). A gunboat is a small vessel equipped with guns, used for military purposes.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'vessel' ('boat') that is equipped with 'firearms' ('gun') — that's what a gunboat is.

Visually Confused Words