VocabDictionary

ordnance

/ˈɔːrdnəns/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

Mounted guns, artillery, or military weapons, ammunition, and combat equipment collectively.

Example Sentences:
  • The military base was well-stocked with heavy ordnance and ammunition.
  • Specialists were called in to safely dispose of unexploded ordnance left over from the conflict.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ordnance”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from Middle English 'ordinaunce' (meaning arrangement, decree, or preparation), which comes from Old French 'ordinance'. It is ultimately rooted in Latin 'ordinare' (to put in order). Over time, the sense of 'provisions and gear put in order for use' narrowed specifically to military supplies, artillery, and munitions.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'ordinance' (a law or rule), but with a 'd' instead of an 'i'—when the law fails, governments bring out the heavy ordnance (weapons)!

Frequently Asked Questions About “ordnance

1. What is the meaning of “ordnance” in English?

In English, ordnance (noun) is defined as: “Mounted guns, artillery, or military weapons, ammunition, and combat equipment collectively.”.

2. How do you use “ordnance” in a sentence?

The military base was well-stocked with heavy ordnance and ammunition.

3. What are English synonyms of “ordnance”?

Common synonyms include:munitions,artillery,ammunition,armament

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ordnance”?

Derived from Middle English 'ordinaunce' (meaning arrangement, decree, or preparation), which comes from Old French 'ordinance'. It is ultimately rooted in Latin 'ordinare' (to put in order). Over time, the sense of 'provisions and gear put in order for use' narrowed specifically to military supplies, artillery, and munitions.