Broadsider

/ˌbrɔːdˈsaɪdər/ noun

Definition

A cannon designed to be fired from the side of a ship; a ship equipped with broadsides; a person who delivers broadside attacks or criticism.

Etymology

From 'broadside' + '-er' (agent noun suffix). Historically this referred to naval cannons and the ships that carried them, later extended to anyone delivering overwhelming attacks verbally.

Kelly Says

Warships had different classes based on how many broadside cannons they could carry—a ship-of-the-line might have 80+ cannons per side. The prestige of nations was literally measured in broadside firepower.

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