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Definition of frigate

frigate

/ˈfrɪɡ.ɪt/
frig · ate

Plural:frigates
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frigate Lexical Profile

frigate Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A fast, medium-sized naval warship. Historically, it referred to a fully rigged, heavily armed sailing ship; in modern times, it describes a versatile vessel used primarily for escort, anti-submarine, or air defense duties.

Example

"The navy deployed a heavily armed frigate to escort the supply convoy safely through international waters."


2

A large, predatory tropical seabird characterized by its deeply forked tail, long wingspan, and the male's inflatable red throat pouch; also formally known as a frigatebird.

Example

"We watched a magnificent frigate glide effortlessly above the coastline, scanning the ocean surface for flying fish."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for frigate

Word Origin & Etymology

Mid 16th century: from French 'frégate', from Italian 'fregata', a word of uncertain origin possibly related to Latin 'fabricata' (something built).

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Frigate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/frigate
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