Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of battleship: A "dreadnought" is a specific class of heavily armored battleship, first introduced in the early 20th century, characterized by having a main armament consisting entirely of large-caliber guns of the same size.
   • A thick, heavy coat: Historically, a "dreadnought" also refers to a thick, warm coat made of heavy woolen cloth, originally worn by sailors in stormy weather.

Usage and Examples

• Noun (Battleship):
  • The launch of HMS Dreadnought in 1906 revolutionized naval warfare.
  • The naval arms race involved the construction of numerous dreadnoughts by major powers.
• Noun (Heavy coat):
  • The sailor wrapped himself in his dreadnought to brave the cold, wet night watch.
  • (This usage is now largely historical or archaic.)

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• The term is often capitalized ("Dreadnought") when referring specifically to the British warship HMS , which gave its name to the entire class of ships.
• In a metaphorical sense, "dreadnought" can be used to describe any person or thing that is exceptionally powerful, formidable, or heavily protected.
  • The new aircraft carrier is a financial dreadnought, costing billions.
• In music, "Dreadnought" is a common body shape for acoustic guitars, known for its large size and powerful sound.

Variants and Related Words

• Dreadnought-class: (Adjective) Describing warships belonging to this category.
  • The dreadnought-class battleships dominated the seas.
• Super-dreadnought: (Noun) A later, more powerful generation of battleships that followed the original dreadnought design.

Synonyms

• Battleship: (For the naval meaning) A general term for a large, heavily armed and armored warship.
• Greatcoat: (For the clothing meaning) A large, heavy overcoat.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To be a dreadnought: An informal phrase meaning to be a very robust, sturdy, or intimidating person or thing.
  • In the world of finance, he was considered a dreadnought.
• Dreadnought policy: A historical term referring to a nation's policy of building and maintaining a powerful fleet of these battleships.

Noun

1. battleship that has big guns all of the same caliber