arsenal

IPA

Dictionary definition of arsenal

A place or facility where weapons, ammunition, military equipment, or other armaments are manufactured, stored, and maintained for military or defensive purposes.
"The military base houses a vast arsenal of weapons."

Detailed meaning of arsenal

It can also describe a comprehensive collection or supply of weaponry or resources available for use in a conflict, whether it be a physical stockpile of arms or a figurative cache of tools and strategies. "Arsenal" is often associated with military and defense contexts, as it plays a crucial role in a nation's preparedness and security. Additionally, the term can be used metaphorically to describe a wide range of resources or capabilities that are at someone's disposal to achieve a particular goal or purpose, not limited to military use but encompassing various aspects of preparedness and readiness.

Example sentences of arsenal

1. The city's arsenal has been heavily fortified to prevent any attacks.
2. They've expanded the arsenal to accommodate newer weapons.
3. Historians believe this site was once a massive arsenal.
4. An underground arsenal was discovered, causing widespread concern.
5. Tours of the historic arsenal are available on weekends.
6. That country's arsenal is suspected to contain illegal weapons.

History and etymology of arsenal

The noun 'arsenal' has its origins in Italian, particularly in the city of Venice. It is derived from the Italian word 'arsenale,' which in turn, is believed to have been influenced by the Arabic word 'dar al-sina'a,' meaning 'house of industry' or 'manufacturing place.' The Venetians adapted this term to describe a place or facility where weapons, ammunition, military equipment, or other armaments were manufactured, stored, and maintained for military or defensive purposes. Over time, the concept of an 'arsenale' spread to other parts of Europe, and the term 'arsenal' was adopted into various languages, including English. It has come to signify not only a physical location but also the collective resources of weaponry and military equipment available to a nation or entity. The etymology of 'arsenal' highlights its historical association with military preparation and the production and storage of armaments.

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Further usage examples of arsenal

1. The general inspected the arsenal before the major offensive.
2. Many medieval castles had their own arsenals for weapon storage.
3. They're modernizing the arsenal to improve defense capabilities.
4. Satellite imagery revealed a hidden arsenal in the desert.
5. The old arsenal has been converted into a museum for the public.
6. Their arsenal's stockpile is larger than previously estimated.
7. The fire at the arsenal was a major setback for the military.
8. Upgrades to the arsenal have been prioritized in this year's budget.
9. Ancient texts mention an arsenal that held legendary weapons.
10. Inspectors were denied access to the suspected arsenal site.
11. The arsenal's security measures are unparalleled and sophisticated.
12. Every major kingdom had a centralized arsenal for rapid mobilization.
13. The coastal town is home to the nation's largest naval arsenal.
14. Authorities uncovered an illicit arsenal hidden in the mountains.
15. The expansion of the arsenal has sparked regional tensions.
16. The old blueprints show intricate designs for the kingdom's arsenal.
17. Soldiers trained daily, ensuring the arsenal was always combat-ready.
18. The military parade showcased some of the newest additions to the arsenal.
19. A specialized team manages the maintenance of the entire arsenal.