How Do You Spell KATUSHKA?

Pronunciation: [kˈatʌʃkə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Katushka" can be confusing for non-native speakers because of the unique pronunciation of the letter "s" in Russian. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /kətuʃkə/, which represents the sounds of the individual letters as well as the stress on the first and third syllables. The letter "ш" represents the "sh" sound, while the letter "ч" represents the "ch" sound. With consistent use of the IPA transcription, learners can confidently spell and pronounce words like "Katushka" in Russian.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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KATUSHKA Meaning and Definition

  1. Katushka (also spelled Katiuska or Katusha) is a noun that refers to a type of rocket launcher system widely used in the mid-20th century, primarily by the Soviet Union and its allies. The term is derived from the Russian word "katyusha," meaning little Catherine, which is the diminutive form of the female given name Ekaterina.

    The Katushka is a multiple rocket launcher (MRL) characterized by a high rate of fire and the ability to saturate a large area with rockets. It typically consists of a truck-mounted launcher platform that carries a set of launch tubes, which can be quickly loaded and fired in rapid succession. The rockets themselves are unguided and relatively inexpensive, making the Katushka a cost-effective way to deliver a barrage of firepower over a wide area.

    Originally developed during World War II, the Katushka played a significant role in military operations, particularly in the Soviet Union's struggle against Nazi Germany. Its distinctive sound, created by the simultaneous launch of multiple rockets, earned it the nickname "Stalin's Organ" among German troops. Over time, various iterations and improvements of the Katushka were produced, expanding its operational capabilities.

    Today, the term Katushka may also be used more broadly to describe any similar rocket launcher system, regardless of its specific origin or make. The word has become synonymous with the concept of a rapid and intense barrage of rockets or projectiles, showcasing the lasting impact and historical legacy of this iconic weapon system.

Common Misspellings for KATUSHKA

Etymology of KATUSHKA

The word "Katushka" is a common transliteration of the Russian word "Катюша", which itself was derived from the diminutive form of the name "Екатерина" (Ekaterina). Ekaterina is the Russian equivalent of the name Catherine. The word "Katushka" became widely known and associated with the Soviet Katyusha rocket launcher during World War II. The nickname "Katyusha" was chosen as a result of a popular wartime patriotic song called "Katyusha", which was sung by Soviet soldiers. The word "Катюша" is believed to have been inspired by the melody of the song and chosen for its soft and gentle sound.