# battleship

/ˈbætəɫˌʃɪp/ (US) · /bˈætəlʃˌɪp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/battleship
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a very large and powerful ship used in wars. These ships have thick metal sides for protection and carry many big guns.

For teachers: a large, heavily armoured warship equipped with a main battery of heavy-calibre guns. Historically significant in naval warfare from the late 19th century through World War II.

## Examples

- The old battleship is now a museum in the harbor.
- During the early 20th century, a nation's global power was often measured by the size of its battleship fleet.
- The era of the battleship effectively ended with the rise of the aircraft carrier, which could strike targets from distances far exceeding the range of even the largest naval guns.

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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.