How Do You Spell CARAVELLA?

Pronunciation: [kˌaɹɐvˈɛlə] (IPA)

The word "caravella" (IPA: kærəˈvɛlə) is a variant spelling of the word "caravela" (IPA: kærəˈvɛlə), a type of small Portuguese sailing ship used during the 15th and 16th centuries. The word is often spelled with a double "l" in some Portuguese and Spanish speaking countries, while others spell it with a single "l". This difference in spelling is due to variations in the pronunciation of the "l" sound in different regions. However, both spellings refer to the same type of ship.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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CARAVELLA Meaning and Definition

  1. Caravella is a noun that refers to a specific type of sailing ship that was prevalent during the 15th and 16th centuries. Originating from the Italian word "caravella," meaning "small ship," the term is primarily used to describe the vessels used by Portuguese and Spanish explorers during the Age of Discovery.

    A caravella is characterized by its distinct design, which typically includes three masts, square sails, and a relatively shallow hull. These ships were highly maneuverable and able to navigate both open seas and river estuaries, making them ideal for long-distance exploration and trade. Caravellas were instrumental in establishing extensive maritime routes and facilitating the expansion of European powers across the globe.

    These ships played a major role in the exploration and colonization of territories such as Africa, Asia, and the Americas. They functioned as the primary means of transportation for European explorers seeking new trade routes, wealth, and territories. The caravella was crucial in the Portuguese and Spanish expeditions that led to the discovery and subsequent colonization of new lands.

    Although the caravella eventually fell out of use with the advent of more advanced shipbuilding techniques and designs, its influence and historical significance remain significant. Today, replicas of caravellas can be found in maritime museums across the world, offering a glimpse into the legacy of these unique vessels and the era they represent.

Etymology of CARAVELLA

The word "caravella" has its origins in the Italian language. It is derived from the Latin term "carravella", which translates to "small galley" or "boat". The Latin term "carravella" is a diminutive form of "carraca", meaning "large ship" or "carrack". The word "caravella" was initially used to refer to a type of sailing ship used during the Age of Discovery, particularly by Portuguese and Spanish explorers. Over time, the term has evolved, and in modern usage, "caravella" generally refers to a type of traditional Mediterranean vessel or a small sailing ship.

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