Definition

An opening in the side of a ship that allows a cannon to be fired.

Example

The sailors prepared the cannon at the gunport for the upcoming battle.

Conversation

Did you see the old ship in the harbor?

Yeah, I heard it has a working gunport for demonstrations.

That's pretty cool! I wonder how they fire the cannon.

I think they use blanks, but it must be exciting to see.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gunport → The word is formed from "gun" (from Middle English *gunne*, meaning a type of firearm) and "port" (from Old French *porte*, meaning a door or opening). A gunport refers to an opening or door designed for the placement or use of a gun.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'door' ('port') specifically made for a 'gun' — that's what a gunport is, an opening for a firearm.

Visually Confused Words