Barque: meaning, definitions and examples

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barque

 

[ bɑːrk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

type of ship

A barque is a sailing vessel that is characterized by having three or more masts, with the foremast rigged as a barquentine, meaning it has fore-and-aft sails. The main mast typically carries square sails, and this type of ship was particularly popular during the Age of Sail for both trading and naval purposes. Barques were versatile and effective for long-distance voyages, especially due to their ability to sail efficiently with both downwind and upwind capabilities. They played a significant role in the expansion of maritime trade and exploration.

Synonyms

bark, ship, vessel

Examples of usage

  • The barque set sail with a full crew.
  • Historically, the barque was used for trade routes across the Atlantic.
  • Many barques were built during the 19th century for commercial shipping.

Translations

Translations of the word "barque" in other languages:

🇵🇹 barca

🇮🇳 नाव

🇩🇪 Bark

🇮🇩 perahu

🇺🇦 барка

🇵🇱 barka

🇯🇵 バルク

🇫🇷 barque

🇪🇸 barca

🇹🇷 bark

🇰🇷 바크

🇸🇦 بارك

🇨🇿 barka

🇸🇰 barka

🇨🇳 小船

🇸🇮 barka

🇮🇸 bark

🇰🇿 барка

🇬🇪 ბარკა

🇦🇿 bark

🇲🇽 barca

Word origin

The word 'barque' comes from the Old Spanish term 'barco', which means 'boat'. Its origins can be traced back to the Latin word 'barca', meaning 'small boat'. Over time, the term evolved in various languages, especially in maritime contexts, to refer specifically to a type of sailing ship with a particular rigging configuration. The popularity of barques peaked during the 17th to 19th centuries, a time when global exploration and trade flourished. As shipbuilding techniques advanced, the design of barques adapted, leading to various forms that catered to different maritime needs. Barques were favored for their speed and maneuverability, making them a common sight in busy ports and trade routes.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,440, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.