demi-cannon

[ dem-ee-kan-uh n ]

/ ˌdɛm iˈkæn ən /

a large cannon of the 16th century, having a bore of about 6½ inches (17 cm) and firing a shot of from 30 to 36 pounds (14 to 16 kg).

Origin of demi-cannon

From Middle French, dating back to 1550–60; see origin at demi-, cannon

The number of cannons royal, and even of demi-cannon, in the English navy was not great.

A Short History of the Royal Navy 1217 to 1688 |David Hannay
One demi-cannon, old casting of Manila, caliber sixteen libras, length twenty-two calibers.

The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898: Volume XIV., 1606-1609 |Various
The Revenge mounted forty "great ordnance" of brass, including cannon-royal, demi-cannon, and culverins for firing a broadside.

The Golden Galleon |Robert Leighton
One demi-cannon cast in Manila, old style, caliber sixteen libras, length twenty-two calibers.

The Philippine Islands, 1493-1898: Volume XIV., 1606-1609 |Various

In the port ride two caravels--eighty tons, no more--and their greatest gun a demi-cannon.

Sir Mortimer |Mary Johnston