BARRAGE BALLOON Meaning and
Definition
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A barrage balloon is a large, tethered balloon that is used as a defensive measure to deter low-flying enemy aircraft. It is typically constructed of a durable material, such as rubber or canvas, and filled with a lighter-than-air gas, such as hydrogen or helium, to provide buoyancy. The balloon is attached to the ground by steel cables or ropes, securing it in a fixed position.
The primary purpose of a barrage balloon is to create a physical obstacle at a certain altitude, forcing enemy aircraft to fly at higher altitudes, which reduces their accuracy and maneuverability. This impediment is particularly effective against low-flying attack aircraft or bombers, making it harder for them to accurately target ground installations, ships, or other military assets.
Barrage balloons were extensively employed during World War I and World War II as a means of airspace defense, especially over cities, military bases, and strategic targets. They served as a visual deterrent, deterring enemy pilots from flying at lower altitudes and forcing them into a higher risk zone. Moreover, the steel cables attached to the barrage balloons could also damage or destroy any aircraft that came into contact with them, leading to potential loss of control or structural damage.
Although the usage of barrage balloons has diminished significantly since the mid-20th century due to advances in aerial warfare, they remain an important part of military history and technique.
Common Misspellings for BARRAGE BALLOON
- varrage balloon
- narrage balloon
- harrage balloon
- garrage balloon
- bzrrage balloon
- bsrrage balloon
- bwrrage balloon
- bqrrage balloon
- baerage balloon
- badrage balloon
- bafrage balloon
- batrage balloon
- ba5rage balloon
- ba4rage balloon
- bareage balloon
- bardage balloon
- barfage balloon
- bartage balloon
- bar5age balloon
Etymology of BARRAGE BALLOON
The word "barrage balloon" is derived from two separate parts: "barrage" and "balloon".
1. "Barrage" comes from the French word "barrage", which means a barrier or obstruction. In military terminology, it refers to a defensive barrier created through concentrated and continuous fire, often used to obstruct the movement of enemy troops or vehicles. The term was adopted into English during World War I.
2. "Balloon" refers to a large, inflated, gas-filled object used for various purposes, including aerial observation, signaling, or transportation. The word "balloon" itself comes from the Italian word "balone" or "ballone", which means a large ball.
The combination of these two terms, "barrage" and "balloon", creates "barrage balloon", a term specifically used to describe a large tethered balloon used as a defensive measure.
Similar spelling word for BARRAGE BALLOON
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