Wikipedia:POTD column/July 5, 2006

A warship is a ship that is built and primarily intended for war. They are designed to withstand damage and are usually both faster and more manoeuvrable than merchant ships. A warship typically only carries weapons, ammunition and supplies for its own crew. Warships usually belong to a navy, though they have sometimes been operated by individuals or companies. This plate from the 1728 Cyclopaedia shows first and third rate English warships.

Illustration credit: 1728 Cyclopaedia
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