demi-cannon

[ dem-ee-kan-uhn ]

noun

1. a large cannon of the 16th century, having a bore of about 6½ inches (17 centimeters) and firing a shot of from 30 to 36 pounds (14 to 16 kilograms).

Word History and Origins

Origin of demi-cannon¹

From Middle French, dating back to 1550–60; demi-, cannon

Example Sentences

Upon every bulwark is mounted one demi-cannon, besides other great guns; in other places are smaller pieces.

From Project Gutenberg

In the port ride two caravels--eighty tons, no more--and their greatest gun a demi-cannon.

From Project Gutenberg

The Revenge mounted forty "great ordnance" of brass, including cannon-royal, demi-cannon, and culverins for firing a broadside.

From Project Gutenberg

One demi-cannon cast in Manila, old style, caliber sixteen libras, length twenty-two calibers.

From Project Gutenberg

One demi-cannon, old casting of Manila, caliber sixteen libras, length twenty-two calibers.

From Project Gutenberg