cannon etymology

Etymology

  • Middle English: canoun
  • Old French: canon
  • Latin: canōn
  • Greek: kanōn "rule, standard"

Meaning

  • A large piece of artillery, typically mounted on wheels and used for firing heavy projectiles.
  • A rule or law.
  • A set of rules or standards, especially in art, literature, or music.
  • A list of recognized saints.
  • The part of the Mass in which the words of Jesus at the Last Supper are spoken.

Origin

The word "cannon" derives ultimately from the Greek word "kanōn," which means "rule" or "standard." This word was used in ancient Greece to refer to a measuring rod, a carpenter's square, or a standard of musical pitch. In the 14th century, the word "canon" came to be used in English to refer to a large piece of artillery, which was often used to break down the walls of castles and other fortifications. The word "cannon" has since come to be used in a variety of contexts, including in law, art, music, and religion.

cannon relate terms

  • cane

    Etymology The word cane comes from the Old French word cane which is itself derived

  • cannonade

    Etymology of Cannon Origin French canonnade 16th century derived from canon gun

  • cannon

    Etymology Middle English canoun Old French canon Latin canōn Greek kanōn rule st

  • shank

    Etymology The word shank is derived from the Old English term sceanca meaning leg

  • carom

    Etymology Middle English carom French carambole Italian carambola Latin carr

  • bombard

    Etymology The word bombard originates from the French word bombarde which in turn i

  • germane

    Etymology and Origin The adjective germane originates from the Latin word germanus

  • rampart

    Etymology and Meaning The word rampart comes from the Middle English term rampart w

  • peal

    Etymology The word peal comes from the Middle English word pelen meaning to make a

  • host

    Etymology The word host comes from the Old English word hōst which in turn is deri

  • tank

    Etymology and Meaning The word tank originates from the French word tanque which mea