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caisson

/ˈkeɪs(ə)n/

noun

Meaning

  • An enclosure from which water can be expelled, in order to give access to underwater areas for engineering works etc.

  • The gate across the entrance to a dry dock.

  • A floating tank that can be submerged, attached to an underwater object and then pumped out to lift the object by buoyancy; a camel.

  • A two-wheeled, horse-drawn military vehicle used to carry ammunition (and a coffin at funerals).

  • A large box to hold ammunition.

  • A chest filled with explosive materials, used like a mine.

  • A coffer.