Definition

Noun: A solid, spherical projectile, typically made of iron, that was fired from a cannon in historical warfare. It was a common type of cannonball before the widespread adoption of explosive shells.

Usage

The term "round shot" specifically refers to the early, non-explosive ammunition for smoothbore cannons. It is primarily used in historical, military, and archaeological contexts.

Examples

• The impact of the round shot shattered the wooden hull of the ship.
• Archaeologists discovered several round shot artifacts at the site of the 18th-century battlefield.
• The cannon was loaded with round shot to breach the fortress walls.

Advanced Usage

• "To fire/cast round shot": To discharge this type of projectile from a cannon.
  • The garrison was ordered to fire round shot at the advancing infantry.

Variants and Related Words

• Cannonball (noun): A more general term that can refer to both solid round shot and later explosive shells. "Round shot" is a specific type of cannonball.
• Solid shot (noun): A synonym emphasizing the projectile's non-explosive, solid nature.
• Grapeshot (noun): A different type of cannon ammunition consisting of multiple smaller balls packed together, used against personnel at close range.

Synonyms

• Cannonball
• Solid shot
• Ball (in historical artillery context)

Related Phrases

• "Round shot and grape": A historical phrase referring to the two primary types of anti-personnel and anti-material cannon ammunition.
  • The battery was prepared to fire both round shot and grape.

Noun

1. a solid projectile that in former times was fired from a cannon