It stems from the Italian word "brigantino", which itself likely comes from the Italian word "briglia", meaning "bridle". This connection arises because:
* Early brigantines were smaller, agile vessels often used by pirates.
* They were known for their maneuverability and speed, similar to a horse controlled by a bridle.
The word "brigantino" then evolved into "brigantine" as the ship design became more popular and widespread, particularly in the Mediterranean and later in the Atlantic.
However, there's another possible origin:
* Some scholars suggest that "brigantine" might come from the Latin word "brigantia", meaning "to break or break through".
* This might relate to the ship's ability to break through enemy lines or navigate challenging waters.
Ultimately, the precise origin of "brigantine" is debated. However, both theories point to the ship's key characteristics: speed, maneuverability, and tactical versatility.