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minisub

minisub

1 8.6
A very small underwater boat for one or two people used by the navy and scientists
  • noun
  • /ˈmɪniˌsʌb/
  • Specialized
translation icon : minisubmarino
  • The research team descended into the ocean in a minisub to explore the coral reefs.

Examples

Synonyms

submersible
vsminisub
  • Specialized
12 7.2

A small vehicle that moves and works under water

is a small crewed underwater vehicle used for naval work or exploration
minisubmarine
vsminisub
  • Specialized
7.4

A very small underwater boat that carries one or two people

is the shorter form of the same concept rather than the longer written form

How Small

minisub
  • Specialized
1 8.6
submersible
  • Specialized
12 7.2
submarine
191 4.2

Surface Forms

minisub singular
minisubs plural

Morphology

minisub = sub (transparent) = mini + sub

The form 'mini-' meaning small combines directly with 'sub' (submarine/submersible) to yield 'a small submersible', a meaning readily accessible to learners.

Etymology

The word minisub comes from mini- meaning 'small' and sub meaning 'under', the same sub you see in submarine. So a minisub is a very small submarine for one or two people.