A torpedo is a projectile that is launched underwater.
A torpedo is a projectile that is launched underwater so that it explodes when it hits its target or when it is near it. Torpedoes, therefore, are launched from ships and are usually directed towards other ships.
Before moving forward it is important to determine the etymological origin of the term. In this sense, it must be emphasized that it derives from the Latin torpedo , torpedinis , which can be translated as "stupor" or "dumbing down" .
Types of torpedo
There are various types of torpedoes that have been used since the mid- 19th century . The trailing torpedo and the boom torpedo , for example, lacked their own mobility and were designed to explode upon collision with the target . Mobile torpedoes , on the other hand, travel autonomously, without being dragged.
The device that allows the launch of torpedoes is called a torpedo tube . They can be installed in underwater sectors or on the surface of the boat .
A type of underwater vehicle whose crew members are placed on the device is known as a human torpedo . These torpedoes emerged in World War II as weapons , although they are currently used as a means of transportation for recreational water activities.
The torpedo ray is a fish in the family Torpedinidae.
The concept in cinema and comics
Within the field of cinema, we also find several films that use the term we are addressing. This would be the case, for example, of the film “Torpedo” , which was released in 1958 and was directed by Robert Wise . Actors of the stature of Burt Lancaster and Clark Gable lead the cast of actors in this feature film that brings us closer to the life of a submarine crew and the missions they must face during the course of World War II .
We also have to emphasize that one of the most well-known and important Spanish comic series of all time is also called “Torpedo” or “Torpedo 36” . Sánchez Abuli and Bernet are the authors of it, which revolves around the adventures of a hitman.
Other uses of the term torpedo
We cannot overlook that within the field of sports this word is also used as a nickname for some athlete. We are exactly referring to the former German soccer player Gerd Müller , who was popularly known as “Torpedo” Müller for the number of goals he scored. And this made him not only one of the greatest scorers in history but also one of the best forwards and the second highest scorer, so far, in the history of his country's team.
Torpedo is also the name of a genus of fish in the family Torpedinidae . Torpedo rays are characterized by their ability to generate electrical discharges, which they use as a defense mechanism and to catch their prey.
In some countries , finally, the clandestine note that students use when taking an exam is called a torpedo. The torpedo is also called machete , trencito , accordion , bate , copatín or goat , depending on the region. The student hides the document and, when the teacher is not observing it, extracts it to copy information.