Dunkirker

/dʌnˈkɪrkɚ/ noun

Definition

A boat or small vessel used in the evacuation of British troops from Dunkirk, France during World War II; also, a soldier involved in this evacuation.

Etymology

Named after Dunkirk (Dunkerque), the French coastal town where the famous WWII evacuation took place in 1940. The suffix '-er' designates either a person or vessel involved.

Kelly Says

The 'little ships' of Dunkirk—fishing boats, pleasure yachts, and rowboats piloted by civilians—became the most romantic rescue in military history, and 'Dunkirker' honors ordinary people becoming heroes overnight.

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