oropesa

noun

or·​o·​pe·​sa

ˌȯrəˈpāsə

plural -s

: one of a pair of torpedo-shaped floats towed one on each side by a minesweeper at a fixed distance to suspend the ends of the steel rope used to tear submerged mines from their moorings

Word History

Etymology

from Oropesa, British trawler that first used it

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now