1. Home
  2. Education
  3. European History

Capital Ships

By Robert Wilde, About.com

Definition: A generic type of ship, comprised of battleships and battlecruisers. As the largest and strongest craft in a fleet, 'capital' ships usually cost the most to build (a lot of capital), acted as the main focal points for the navy (capital as in the head of something) and embodied power and ability (capital being used to push a project forward). The term soon became entirely self-contained, referring to the high speed, massive armour and deadly guns of naval behemoths like Bismarck. Other famous capital ships include Britain's Hood and Dreadnought and Germany's Tirpitz.

Explore European History

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. European History
  4. Reference and Resources
  5. Glossaries
  6. Capital Ships - Definition of Capital Ships

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.