Meaning of the word gunboat in English

What does gunboat mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

gunboat

US /ˈɡʌn.boʊt/
UK /ˈɡʌn.bəʊt/
"gunboat" picture

Noun

a small, fast warship armed with guns, typically used for coastal defense or riverine operations

Example:
The gunboat patrolled the river delta.
They deployed a fleet of gunboats to secure the harbor.