turret

noun

tur·​ret ˈtər-ət 

ˈtə-rət,

ˈtu̇r-ət 

1

: a little tower

specifically : an ornamental structure at an angle of a larger structure

2

a(1)

: a revolving armored structure on a warship that protects one or more guns mounted within it

(2)

: a similar upper structure usually for one gun on a tank

(3)

: a gunner's fixed or movable enclosure in an airplane

b

: a tall building usually moved on wheels and formerly used for carrying soldiers and equipment for breaching or scaling a wall

3

a

: a pivoted and revolvable holder in a machine tool

b

: a device (as on a microscope or a television camera) holding several lenses

Examples of turret in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Defined by arched windows, stained glass, turrets, and battlements, the residence is largely considered the first Gothic Revival building and contributed to the widespread re-interest in the historic aesthetic. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 24 Oct. 2024

The castle’s stately facade has been maintained throughout the centuries with masons carefully restoring its chimneys, turrets, and parapet roofs, in addition to a 15th-century stone carriage bridge. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 9 Oct. 2024

Bryce combined Gothic and Renaissance elements in the estate’s regal design, accentuating the exterior with turrets, towers, and battlements. —Allix Cott, Architectural Digest, 18 Oct. 2024

Each of the two turrets houses an en-suite bathroom connected to an adjoining bedroom. —Annabelle Dufraigne, Architectural Digest, 28 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English touret, from Anglo-French turette, tourette, diminutive of tur, tour tower — more at tower

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

turret

noun

tur·​ret ˈtər-ət  ˈtə-rət 

tu̇r-ət

1

: a little tower often at a corner of a building

2

: a low usually rotating structure (as in a tank, warship, or airplane) in which guns are mounted