Spithead

[ spit-hed ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a roadstead off the S coast of England between Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight.

Spithead

/ ˌspɪtˈhɛd /

an extensive anchorage between the mainland of England and the Isle of Wight, off Portsmouth

Anson arrived at Spithead, after a voyage of three years and nine months round the world.

In the following year he was about to put to sea when the Spithead fleet mutinied.

The west tide was going, and a long stretch was made across Spithead, 'Britannia' giving her rival a blistering for a time.

Howe commanded the channel fleet; he kept it at Spithead, and it did nothing of importance during the year.

The Scorpion was in such a crazy state that she had nearly foundered between Spithead and Plymouth.

April 25, 2024firkin

[fur-kin ]

Start each day with the Word of the Day in your inbox!

By clicking "Sign Up", you are accepting Dictionary.com Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Browse