Boat

Definition

Boat is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a small vessel for traveling over water, typically smaller than a ship, and propelled by oars, sails, or a motor. As a verb, it means to travel by boat or to transport something in a boat.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /boʊt/
• Respelling: BOHT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bəʊt/
• Respelling: BOHT

Etymology

The word "boat" originates from Old English "bāt," meaning "small ship" or "vessel," related to similar terms in Old Norse and Germanic languages. Its use has remained relatively stable over centuries, primarily referring to small watercraft.

Derivatives

• Boating (noun)
• Boathouse (noun)
• Boatman (noun)
• Boatswain (noun)
• Boatload (noun)

Synonyms

• Vessel
• Craft
• Dinghy

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "boat" is commonly used to describe small watercraft and is often applied in both recreational and professional contexts. For example, "They took the boat out to fish," or "She loves to go boating on weekends."

Related Terms

• Ship: A larger watercraft, typically for long-distance travel.
• Raft: A flat structure for floating on water.
• Canoe: A narrow, lightweight boat pointed at both ends, propelled with a paddle.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small watercraft: Refers to a vessel designed for water travel, usually smaller than a ship.
  • Example: "They rented a boat to explore the lake."
• A recreational or commercial vessel: Used for activities such as fishing, transportation, or leisure.
  • Example: "The fishing boat was fully equipped with nets and rods."

Verb

• To travel by boat: Describes the act of moving across water using a boat.
  • Example: "They planned to boat down the river."
• To transport by boat: Refers to the act of carrying goods or people in a boat.
  • Example: "They boated supplies across the lake to the island."