naval
UK: ˈneɪvəl | US: ˈneɪvəl
adj. relating to a navy or warships
adj. involving or characteristic of ships or shipping
naval = nav<ship> + al<adjective suffix>
- nav (from Latin navis, meaning "ship")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word "naval" traces back to the Latin navalis, derived from navis (ship). It entered Middle English via Old French, retaining its core association with ships. The suffix -al systematically converts nouns into adjectives, making "naval" mean "pertaining to ships." Historically, it narrowed to specifically describe military fleets (navies) as maritime warfare became institutionalized.
The naval base was strategically located near the strait.
She pursued a career in naval architecture.
The 18th-century naval battles shaped global trade routes.
His grandfather served as a naval officer during the war.
The treaty included clauses on naval disarmament.