noun
pompom
An automatic cannon that fires with a rapid popping sound.
The ship's pompom fires a rapid burst at the approaching aircraft.
Etymology
The cannon-name imitates its repeated reports. It is separate from the ornamental ball-name.
More examples
- The crew loads ammunition into the pompom.
- Two pompoms guard the harbor entrance.
- We hear the pompom's sharp popping sound across the water.
Forms
pompom · pompoms
Similar words
- autocannon
- Names any automatic cannon, without referring to its sound.
- cannon
- Broader term that does not necessarily imply automatic fire.