torpedo
UK: tɔːˈpiːdəʊ | US: tɔːrˈpiːdoʊ
n. 1. A self-propelled underwater missile designed to explode on impact.
n. 2. (Historical) An electric ray (fish).
vt. To attack or destroy with a torpedo; to undermine or sabotage.
torpedo = torp<numb> + edo<Latin noun suffix>
- torp (from Latin torpere, meaning "to be numb or stiff")
- edo (Latin noun suffix, often denoting an agent or result)
Etymology Origin:
The word torpedo originally referred to the electric ray fish, named for its ability to deliver a numbing shock (from Latin torpere). In the 18th century, naval engineers adopted the term for underwater explosive devices, metaphorically linking the fish’s paralyzing effect to the weapon’s destructive power. The modern sense of "sabotage" emerged later, extending the metaphor of stealthy disruption.
The submarine launched a torpedo at the enemy battleship.
The electric ray is sometimes called a "torpedo fish."
The scandal torpedoed his political career.
Engineers tested the new torpedo in deep waters.
Their plans were torpedoed by unexpected regulations.