Caravel (noun)

A small, highly maneuverable ship used by Portuguese and Spanish sailors for exploring and trading, especially in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Origin:

Late middle english: from old portuguese caravela, from cara "face", from the ship's triangular shape at the front.

Examples:

1. Christopher Columbus sailed across the Atlantic on three caravels.
2. The caravels were equipped with lateen sails, making them ideal for long voyages.
3. The caravels were faster and more agile than the large merchant ships of their time.
4. The caravels were instrumental in the Age of Discovery and the expansion of European trade.
5. The caravel was a major technological advancement in seafaring, allowing sailors to explore new worlds.