1. a torpedo-shaped device towed underwater by a ship to cut the cables of mines
Usage: nautical; military

Examples

• The minesweeper deployed paravanes to clear the harbor of enemy mines.
• Each paravane was equipped with cutting blades to sever mine cables.
• The ship’s paravanes were streamed out on both sides during the sweep operation.
• Naval crews trained extensively on paravane deployment techniques.
• The paravane’s design allowed it to maintain proper depth while being towed.
• Modern paravanes include sophisticated guidance systems for precise minesweeping.