1. a fast warship that is smaller than a destroyer and used for escort and patrol duties
Usage: naval
2. a sailing warship of the 17th to 19th centuries with a single gun deck
Usage: historical; nautical

Examples

• The frigate patrolled the coastline looking for enemy submarines.
• Modern frigates are equipped with advanced radar systems.
• The naval fleet included three frigates and two destroyers.
• HMS Victory was originally classified as a first-rate ship of the line, not a frigate.
• The frigate’s crew prepared for a long deployment at sea.
• Pirates often avoided areas patrolled by naval frigates.
• The museum displayed a model of an 18th-century frigate.