# ARA

/ˈæɹə/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ara
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a small, fast ship used by some navies to attack larger ships or protect the coast.

For teachers: a fast, light naval vessel, typically an auxiliary or coastal craft used for rapid strikes or patrol duties.

## Examples

- The navy deployed an ara to patrol the shallow coastal waters.
- During the naval exercise, the ara successfully intercepted the larger transport ship before it could reach the harbor.
- Historical naval records indicate that the ara was favored for its maneuverability in narrow straits where larger galleons found it impossible to turn effectively against the wind.

## Usage notes

- Often used in historical or specific regional military contexts; takes a countable noun structure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.