Cacafuego

/ˌkɑːkəˈfweɪɡoʊ/ noun

Definition

A Spanish galleon famous for carrying treasure, particularly the ship that Sir Francis Drake famously captured in 1579.

Etymology

From Spanish: caca (excrement) + fuego (fire). The name was deliberately insulting, literally 'fire-breaker' or 'shit-fire,' reflecting Spanish humor and bravado in naming vessels.

Kelly Says

Drake's capture of the Cacafuego was a turning point in naval history—one English privateer's victory against Spain's supposedly invincible treasure fleet shifted the entire balance of power in the Atlantic.

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