anti-tank
|an-ti-tank|
/ˈæn.tiˌtæŋk/
against tanks
Etymology
'anti-tank' is a compound of the prefix 'anti-' from Greek meaning 'against' and 'tank' referring to the armored fighting vehicle.
'tank' entered English in the early 20th century (World War I) as a cover name for armored vehicles; the compound 'anti-tank' arose in the 20th century as militaries developed weapons and tactics to oppose tanks.
Initially it literally meant 'against tanks'; over time it has remained specialized but broadened to describe weapons, tactics, mines, and munitions intended to defeat or defend against tanks.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a weapon or device specifically intended to destroy or disable tanks (an anti-tank weapon).
They tested a new anti-tank on the range.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
designed to destroy or defend against tanks; used to describe weapons, tactics, or equipment intended for countering tanks.
The unit carried anti-tank mines to protect the road.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/11/25 01:28