PLUNGING FIRE Meaning and
Definition
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Plunging fire refers to a military term used to describe the trajectory of artillery fire that is directed at a high angle and descends steeply towards its target. This type of fire is commonly employed when the target is located behind cover or in a trench, making it difficult to be directly hit with regular flat-trajectory fire.
The term "plunging" is derived from the steep angle at which the trajectory descends, akin to an object plunging downwards. When artillery is fired at a high angle, the projectile reaches its peak elevation before descending rapidly towards the target, gaining speed and penetrating power as it does so. This trajectory allows the shell to bypass obstacles, such as walls or trenches, by hitting them from above, where they may be less fortified.
Plunging fire is a preferred method especially against defensive positions or fortified enemy installations, as it increases the chances of hitting the desired target hidden from direct line of sight. By firing at a steep angle, the shells have greater kinetic energy upon impact, enabling them to penetrate deeper into the target structure, causing significant damage. Moreover, the rapid descent of the shells makes it harder for the enemy to react or evade, as they have less time to seek cover.
Overall, plunging fire is an artillery strategy that involves firing at a high angle to achieve a steeper trajectory, allowing projectiles to bypass obstacles and descend rapidly onto a desired target, maximizing damage and minimizing the possibility of enemy evasion or interception.
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In mil., the fire of guns directed downwards from a height.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PLUNGING FIRE
- olunging fire
- llunging fire
- -lunging fire
- 0lunging fire
- pkunging fire
- ppunging fire
- pounging fire
- plynging fire
- plhnging fire
- pljnging fire
- plinging fire
- pl8nging fire
- pl7nging fire
- plubging fire
- plumging fire
- plujging fire
- pluhging fire
- plunfing fire
- plunving fire
- plunbing fire
Etymology of PLUNGING FIRE
The etymology of the term "plunging fire" can be traced back to its military origins.
The word "plunge" is derived from the Old French word "plongier", meaning "to plunge or dive". It originally described the action of diving into water but gradually extended to mean descending or falling abruptly in a downward direction.
In military context, "fire" refers to the act of discharging firearms or artillery.
"Plunging fire" specifically refers to a type of indirect fire employed in artillery warfare. It describes the trajectory of projectiles fired at a high angle, causing them to plunge down from above, hitting a target from above and perpendicular to the surface. This type of firing trajectory is often used to strike targets behind protective cover or fortifications, where a direct line of fire is obstructed.
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