minesweeper

American  

[mahyn-swee-per] / ˈmaɪnˌswi pər /

noun

Navy.

1. a specially equipped ship used for dragging a body of water in order to remove or destroy enemy mines.

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minesweeper British  

/ ˈmaɪnˌswiːpə /

noun

1. a naval vessel equipped to detect and clear mines

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Other Word Forms

• minesweeping noun

Etymology

Origin of minesweeper

First recorded in 1900–05; mine ² + sweeper

Example Sentences

Royal Navy minesweepers were based in Bahrain, an asset much appreciated by the adjacent US Navy's 5th Fleet HQ which surprisingly, has been weak on mine counter measures.

From BBC

Royal Australian Navy destroyers, minesweepers, planes, helicopters and a number of other vessels launched a massive search, as rescue crews also combed the shore for any sign of survivors.

From BBC

He was one of about 150,000 allied troops who took part in the Normandy Landings on 6 June 1944 - serving as a quartermaster on a minesweeper.

From BBC

Both are specialist minesweeper vessels, helping ensure the safe flow of trade through the waters, the Royal Navy said.

From BBC

The yard was building hospital ships and minesweepers in 1917 when King George V became the first of many royal visitors over the years.

From BBC