SUPERFIRING Meaning and
Definition
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Superfiring refers to the arrangement of naval guns on a warship, specifically battleships or cruisers, where one gun turret is positioned directly above another, allowing both turrets to fire in the same direction without any interference from the lower turret's deckhouse structure. This configuration allows for enhanced firepower and tactical advantages.
The term "superfiring" is derived from the word "super," meaning above or on top, and "fire," referring to the act of discharging a gun. In a superfiring arrangement, the upper turret has an unobstructed field of fire, as it is situated high enough to avoid being blocked by the lower turret. This design is particularly useful during combat situations, as it allows for simultaneous firing of both guns, increasing the volume of fire that can be directed toward a target.
The concept of superfiring was developed to overcome the limitations of single-gun turrets mounted side by side. By placing one turret atop the other, space is optimized, reducing the ship's length and allowing for a larger number of guns to be mounted on a given hull size.
Superfiring turrets have been employed on various warships throughout history, from World War I-era battleships to modern-day guided-missile cruisers. The arrangement offers improvements in terms of firepower concentration, accuracy, and versatility, enabling naval vessels to engage targets effectively and maintain a superior fighting capability.
Etymology of SUPERFIRING
The word "superfiring" is derived from the combination of two words: "super" and "firing".
- "Super" comes from the Latin word "super", meaning "above" or "over".
- "Firing" is derived from the Old English word "fīr", which means "fire".
In naval terminology, the phrase "superfiring" refers to the arrangement of gun turrets on a warship, particularly battleships or cruisers, where one turret is located above and behind another turret. This configuration allows the top turret to fire over the lower turret, giving the ship increased firepower without the need for a wider hull.
The term "superfiring" originated in the early 20th century as ships began adopting this turret arrangement. It describes the firing of guns from a position above or over another set of guns, improving the efficiency and tactical capabilities of naval vessels.
