torpedoes

Variant of torpedo

torpedo Definition

tor·pedo (tôr pē′dō)

noun pl. torpedoes -·does

electric ray
☆ a large, cigar-shaped, self-propelled underwater projectile for launching against enemy ships from a submarine, airplane, etc.: it is detonated by contact, sound, etc.
a metal case containing explosives, esp. one used as an underwater mine
a small fireworks device consisting of a percussion cap and gravel wrapped in tissue paper, which explodes with a loud noise when thrown against a hard surface
☆ an explosive cartridge or a flare, placed on a railroad track and detonated by a train wheel as a signal to the crew
☆ an explosive cartridge lowered into oil wells, where it is detonated to clear the bore or break through into the oil pocket
☆ Slang a gangster or gunman hired as a bodyguard, assassin, etc.

Etymology: L, numbness, crampfish < torpere, to be stiff: see torpid

transitive verb torpedoed -·doed, torpedoing -·do·ing

to attack, damage, or destroy with or as with a torpedo

torpedoes Usage Examples

Converse of object