HOWITZER SHELL Meaning and
Definition
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A howitzer shell refers to a projectile specifically designed for use with a howitzer, which is a large artillery cannon typically fired at high angles. It is an explosive projectile that serves the purpose of destroying targets, usually located at a considerable distance. Howitzer shells are characterized by their shape and unique components.
The shell itself is usually cylindrical in shape, with a pointed nose and a hollow interior. It consists of different elements specifically engineered to enhance its effectiveness. The shell's body is typically made from high-strength materials, such as steel, to withstand the forces generated during firing and to ensure it maintains its structural integrity during flight.
One of the essential components of a howitzer shell is the explosive filler, located in the hollow interior. The filler is carefully selected to provide maximum destructive potential upon impact with the target. It is commonly composed of a high-explosive material that detonates upon contact or at a predetermined proximity to the target.
To ensure stability in flight, howitzer shells generally possess a rotating band around the base. This band engages with the rifling present in the howitzer's barrel, imparting spin to the projectile for enhanced accuracy and distance.
Howitzer shells can be loaded with various types of explosives, including high explosive (HE), smoke, illuminating, or specialized anti-personnel or anti-vehicle rounds. The type of shell used depends on the desired effect, such as destroying enemy emplacements, providing cover, or illuminating the battlefield during nighttime operations.
Overall, a howitzer shell is a purpose-built explosive projectile, designed to be fired from a howitzer cannon, renowned for its destructive capabilities and versatility in addressing different tactical requirements on the battlefield.
Common Misspellings for HOWITZER SHELL
- gowitzer shell
- bowitzer shell
- nowitzer shell
- jowitzer shell
- uowitzer shell
- yowitzer shell
- hiwitzer shell
- hkwitzer shell
- hlwitzer shell
- hpwitzer shell
- h0witzer shell
- h9witzer shell
- hoqitzer shell
- hoaitzer shell
- hositzer shell
- hoeitzer shell
- ho3itzer shell
- ho2itzer shell
- howutzer shell
- howjtzer shell
Etymology of HOWITZER SHELL
The word "howitzer" has its origins in the 17th century and is derived from the Czech term "houfnice", which means "bundle of sticks" or "sheaf". This is likely because early models of the howitzer resembled bundles of sticks tied together due to their tubular shape.
The term "shell" has a separate etymology and comes from the Old English word "scealu", which initially referred to the outer covering of a nut. Over time, it expanded to include the concept of a protective covering or outer layer of various objects. In the context of artillery, a "shell" refers to the ammunition fired by cannons, mortars, or howitzers.
Therefore, when combined, the term "howitzer shell" simply refers to the projectile or ammunition fired by a howitzer artillery piece.
