long tom

American  

noun

(usually initial capital letters)

1. a towed 155 mm field cannon produced by the United States throughout World War II.

2. a long, heavy cannon formerly carried by small naval vessels.

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long tom British  

noun

1. a long swivel cannon formerly used in naval warfare

2. a long-range land gun

3. an army slang name for cannon

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Etymology

Origin of long tom

First recorded in 1825–35

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

long tom

Moving two of the nine-pounders across the deck, and cutting ports for them in the bulwarks, he brought five guns, in addition to his famous "long tom," to bear on the enemy.

From Gentlemen Rovers by E. Alexander (Edward Alexander) Powell

He is content to gather together by means of puddling machine, cradle, long tom, or even puddling tub and tin dish, the scales, specks, dust, and occasional small nuggets ordinarily met with in alluvial "washes."

From Getting Gold: a practical treatise for prospectors, miners and students by J. C. F. (Joseph Colin Frances) Johnson

There was plenty of ground called poor ground that had much gold in it but could not be profitably worked with the rocker and long tom.

From Death Valley in '49 by William Lewis Manly

A "long tom" is an inclined, narrow box set stationary with a constant stream of water entering at the upper end.

From The Business of Mining A brief non-technical exposition of the principles involved in the profitable operation of mines by Arthur J. Hoskin

With a long tom, two men will ordinarily handle about five or six cubic yards in ten hours.

From The Business of Mining A brief non-technical exposition of the principles involved in the profitable operation of mines by Arthur J. Hoskin

Related Words

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• mortar
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