conning tower

[ kon-ing ]

noun

1. the low observation tower of a submarine, constituting the main entrance to the interior.
2. the low, dome-shaped, armored pilothouse of a warship.

conning tower

/ ˈkɒnɪŋ /

noun

1. Also calledsail a superstructure of a submarine, used as the bridge when the vessel is on the surface
2. the armoured pilot house of a warship

Word History and Origins

Origin of conning tower¹

First recorded in 1865–70; con ⁶ + -ing ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of conning tower¹

C19: see con ⁴

Example Sentences

The DLR Group presented a design that included the submarine conning tower in the outdoor pool.

From Washington Post

The wind appeared to affect just one 3-point shot as the six-level conning tower and the scoreboard blocked most of the wind off the Pacific Ocean.

From Seattle Times

He was initially cast in action roles in the saddle, the racecar, the conning tower and the spaceship.

From Washington Post

The cleanup mission focused on the submarine’s conning tower and the front outer hull.

From Reuters

The bomb hit aft of the Grayback’s conning tower and the sub sank with the loss of her 80-strong crew.

From Fox News