caravel

noun

car·​a·​vel ˈker-ə-ˌvel How to pronounce caravel (audio)
ˈka-rə-,
-vəl
Synonyms of caravelnext
: any of several sailing ships
specifically : a small 15th and 16th century ship that has broad bows, high narrow poop, and usually three masts with lateen or both square and lateen sails

Illustration of caravel

Illustration of caravel

Examples of caravel in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Wreck 5 was built using a method known as caravel planking, where planks are placed end to end without overlapping, archaeologist and project leader Håkan Altrock said in the release. — Aspen Pflughoeft, Miami Herald, 7 Mar. 2025 Engulfed in the unpredictable Dionysian crowds rocking him left and right like a 15th century caravel, Reed vowed to carry on until morning like locals traditionally do. — Ana Leorne, SPIN, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle French caravelle, from Old Portuguese caravela

First Known Use

1527, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of caravel was in 1527

Rhymes for caravel

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Cite this Entry

“Caravel.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/caravel. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

caravel

noun
car·​a·​vel ˈkar-ə-ˌvel How to pronounce caravel (audio)
-vəl
: a small 15th and 16th century ship with a broad bow, a high stern, and usually three masts

More from Merriam-Webster on caravel

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for caravel

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about caravel

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