1. Short, large-caliber cannons mounted on ships, designed for close-range combat and requiring less gunpowder than standard cannons.
Usage: nautical; historical; plural form of carronade

Examples

• The frigate was equipped with twelve carronades along its gun deck.
• Carronades were favored by naval commanders for their devastating effect at short distances.
• The British Navy widely adopted carronades during the late 18th century.
• Unlike traditional cannons, carronades were lighter and easier to maneuver on crowded ship decks.
• The ship's carronades proved effective in the close-quarters battle with the enemy vessel.