Gingals

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of small cannon or artillery piece historically used for defense or warfare; a device designed to launch projectiles over short distances; a weapon mounted on fortifications or ships for shooting enemies
2. A particular kind of compact gun employed in military engagements; an apparatus made to propel balls or shot at targets; an early form of cannon often positioned for strategic defense
3. An ancient firearm category characterized by moderate size and firepower; a mechanism meant for firing ammunition in battle or siege; a defensive armament used on forts or vessels to repel attackers

Etymology: "Gingals" is the plural of "gingal", a small cannon mounted on a swivel or a camel's back. The singular "gingal" is itself a borrowing, and its ultimate source is the Hindi-Urdu word "jangal" (also written "jinjal"), a term that passed into English through the Indian subcontinent during the period of British and Portuguese contact there. The form in which English knows it reflects that path, which is why the word sounds so unlike the European artillery names around it.