Blindage is a term that is not commonly used in everyday conversation, but it has a specific meaning in certain contexts. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the word blindage, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, associations, and example sentences.
Definitions
Blindage is a French word that means shielding or protection. It is used in different contexts, including construction, military, and engineering. In construction, blindage refers to the temporary or permanent support structures used to protect workers and the surrounding environment during excavation or tunneling. In military contexts, blindage refers to the armor or shielding used to protect vehicles, weapons, or personnel from enemy fire. In engineering, blindage refers to the protection of equipment or machinery from external damage.
Origin
The word blindage has its roots in the French language. It comes from the Old French word blinder, which means “to blind” or “to make blind.” The word blindage was first used in the 19th century in the context of military fortifications and armor.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Blindage is not a common word in English, and it may not be found in all dictionaries. However, some dictionaries provide definitions of the word. For example, the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines blindage as “armor or shielding designed to protect from enemy fire.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines blindage as “the act of making blind or the state of being blinded; also, a screen or partition to protect from light.”
Associations
Blindage is associated with protection, shielding, and armor. It is also associated with construction, excavation, and tunneling. In military contexts, blindage is associated with tanks, armored vehicles, and fortifications.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for blindage include shielding, protection, armor, fortification, barricade, and barrier.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for blindage include vulnerability, exposure, weakness, fragility, and openness.
The same root words
Blindage shares its root with other French words, including blinder (to blind), aveugle (blind), and aveuglement (blindness).
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the word blindage:
- The blindage on the tank protected the crew from enemy fire.
- The construction workers installed a blindage to protect the surrounding buildings from the excavation work.
- The engineers added a blindage to the machinery to prevent damage from external factors.
- The military fortification had a thick blindage to protect the soldiers from enemy attacks.