naval
NAY-vuhl
Naval (adj) means relating to a country's navy or to warships. Example: “The museum has a large collection of naval maps and old ship models.”
adj
1
Relating to a country's navy or to warships.
"The museum has a large collection of naval maps and old ship models."
"The naval base houses several aircraft carriers."
"He served as a naval officer for twenty years."
"Conditions were horrendous aboard most British naval vessels at the time. Scurvy and other diseases ran rampant, killing more seamen each year than all other causes combined, including combat."
— William E. Carter, The British Longitude Act Reconsidered (2012)
How to use naval
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo do with a navy or warships.
Common mistake
Don't confuse with "navel" (belly button) — they sound alike but mean completely different things.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
naval base
naval officer
naval forces
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Word forms
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The museum has a large collection of _____ maps and old ship models.
Etymology
From Latin navalis, "of ships," from navis, "ship."
Related words
Rhymes for naval
See all rhymes for naval →Frequently asked questions
What does “naval” mean?
The word “naval” means relating to a country's navy or to warships. In plain terms, to do with a navy or warships.
How do you pronounce “naval”?
“Naval” is pronounced NAY-vuhl (/ˈneɪvəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “naval” in a sentence?
Here is “naval” used in a sentence: “The naval base houses several aircraft carriers.”
What part of speech is “naval”?
“Naval” is an adjective.
Where does the word “naval” come from?
The word “naval” comes from Latin. From Latin navalis, "of ships," from navis, "ship.".
Is “naval” a common word?
“Naval” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "naval" and "navel"?
Naval relates to a navy or to warships, while navel means the belly button. They sound alike but are unrelated; a helpful reminder is that naval shares the "a" of navy.
What is the difference between "naval" and "nautical"?
Naval relates specifically to a country's navy or its warships, while nautical relates more broadly to ships, sailors, and navigation of any kind. A naval battle involves navies, but nautical miles apply to all sea travel.
What is the difference between "naval" and "marine"?
Naval refers to a navy and its warships, while marine relates to the sea in general or to marine forces. Naval is tied to military fleets, whereas marine has wider, often non-military meanings.
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