battleship
UK: ˈbætl̩ʃɪp | US: ˈbætl̩ʃɪp
n. a large, heavily armored warship equipped with heavy-caliber guns
n. (figuratively) something large, powerful, or dominant in its field
The word "battleship" emerged in the late 18th century, combining "battle" (from Old French bataille, meaning "combat") and "ship" (from Old English scip, meaning "vessel"). Originally, it referred to any warship, but by the 19th century, it specifically denoted the largest and most heavily armed class of naval vessels. The term reflects the ship's primary role in direct combat ("battle") and its structural identity as a seafaring vessel ("ship").
The battleship fired its massive guns during the naval exercise.
In World War II, battleships played a crucial role in major sea battles.
The company’s new flagship product is a battleship in the tech industry.
The museum displays a retired battleship from the early 20th century.
Modern navies have largely replaced battleships with aircraft carriers.