A caravel is a small, fast sailing ship developed in the 15th century by the Portuguese. Synonyms for caravel include carrack, galleon, clipper, schooner, and ketch. Carracks were larger than caravels and were used for transporting cargo and passengers across long distances, while galleons were heavily armed ships used for warfare and exploration. Clippers were fast ships used for trading, typically in tea and spices, and schooners were small sailing ships used for fishing and coastal trade. Ketches, like caravels, were smaller and designed for speed and maneuverability. Each of these synonyms has its own unique history and purpose, but all reflect the advancements of maritime technology.