CALIVER Meaning and
Definition
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Caliver is a historical term referring to a type of firearm that was used during the 16th and early 17th centuries. It was a long-barreled musket or lighter version of an arquebus, typically measuring around four to five feet in length. The firearm was muzzle-loaded and featured a matchlock mechanism, which required a lit match or cord to ignite the gunpowder and fire the weapon.
The term "caliver" is believed to have originated from the Spanish word "calibre," meaning caliber or gauge. It was extensively used by infantry soldiers, particularly by the arquebusiers who formed an integral part of early modern military forces. The caliver was highly esteemed for its accuracy and could deliver a significant punch with its projectile, often a lead ball.
The design and characteristics of the caliver underwent some variations throughout its period of popularity, with some having longer barrels for better accuracy, while others had shorter barrels for easier handling and portability. Additionally, improvements in barrel construction and ignition mechanisms were made over time, leading to enhanced performance.
Although the caliver eventually became obsolete as advancements in firearms technology continued, it played a crucial role in the transition from traditional archery and crossbow use to firearms on the battlefield. The term "caliver" now primarily denotes a historical firearm and serves as a reminder of this era of military weaponry.
Common Misspellings for CALIVER
- xaliver
- valiver
- faliver
- czliver
- csliver
- cwliver
- cqliver
- cakiver
- capiver
- caoiver
- caluver
- caljver
- calkver
- calover
- cal9ver
- cal8ver
- calivwr
- calivsr
- calivdr
Etymology of CALIVER
The word "caliver" traces its origins back to the late 16th century. It is derived from the Middle French word "calibre", which means caliber or size, particularly in relation to firearms. The Middle French term itself came from the Old Provençal word "calibre" and the Latin word "calibra", both of which share the same meaning. Over time, "caliver" specifically came to refer to a type of light gun or musket used in the 16th and 17th centuries.
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