Definition

1. Noun:
   • The science or practice of designing, making, or operating large guns and artillery: "Gunnery" refers to the field of knowledge and skill related to heavy firearms, especially mounted military weapons.
   • A body or collection of guns: "Gunnery" can also refer to guns collectively, as a group or unit.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • He specialized in naval gunnery and could hit a target from miles away.
  • The fort's defensive power depended on its formidable gunnery.

Advanced Usage

• "Gunnery sergeant": A specific non-commissioned officer rank in the United States Marine Corps and some other forces, historically associated with expertise in artillery.
  • The gunnery sergeant trained the new recruits on the proper maintenance of the howitzers.

Variants and Related Words

• Gunner (n): A person who operates a gun, especially in the military or on a ship or aircraft.
  • The bomber's tail gunner bravely defended the plane.
• Gun (n): The individual weapon from which the collective term "gunnery" is derived.

Synonyms

• Artillery: Large-caliber guns used in warfare on land.
• Ordnance: Military weapons, ammunition, and equipment.

Related Phrases

• Gunnery range: A designated area for practicing shooting with large guns.
  • The battleship conducted exercises at the offshore gunnery range.
• Gunnery officer: An officer responsible for the operation and effectiveness of a ship's or unit's guns.
  • The gunnery officer ordered the crew to prepare the main batteries for firing.

Noun

1. guns collectively