Canoe: meaning, definitions and examples

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canoe

[kəˈnuː ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

watercraft

A canoe is a narrow, lightweight boat with pointed ends, typically propelled by paddles. Canoes are commonly used for recreational activities such as canoeing and fishing.

Synonyms

boat, kayak, paddleboat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
canoe	Typically used for a light, narrow vessel pointed at both ends and open on top, usually propelled by one or two people using paddles. Commonly found in calm waters such as lakes or gentle rivers. We took a canoe down the river.
boat	A general term for any small to medium-sized vessel used for traveling on water. It can be powered by sails, motors, or paddles. Suitable for a variety of water types including lakes, rivers, and oceans. They spent the day fishing from the boat.
kayak	A specific type of small, narrow watercraft which is typically propelled by a double-bladed paddle. Kayaks are often used in sport or adventure activities and can navigate rougher waters like whitewater rivers. She loves kayaking through the rapids.
paddleboat	A flat-bottomed boat often propelled by pedals turning a paddle wheel. These are usually found on calm lakes or ponds and used for leisurely activities. We rented a paddleboat to explore the lake.

Examples of usage

We took a canoe trip down the river.
She enjoys paddling her canoe on the lake.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

travel by canoe

To canoe means to travel in a canoe, usually by paddling. It is a popular outdoor activity for exploring rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water.

Synonyms

navigate, paddle, row.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
canoe	Refers to a lightweight narrow boat with pointed ends and no keel, usually propelled with paddles. Commonly used when talking about recreational water activities on rivers, lakes, or coastal areas. They decided to take a canoe trip down the river She enjoys spending her weekends canoeing on the lake
paddle	Describes the act of moving a small boat, like a canoe or kayak, through the water using a paddle. It can also refer to the tool (a paddle) itself. They paddled the canoe across the lake She picked up the paddle and started to row
row	Used for driving a boat forward by using oars. Typically applied to rowing boats, where passengers sit facing backward while pulling an oar. Commonly associated with competitive sports or leisurely rowing on calm waters. The team rowed in perfect synchronization He rowed the boat to the other side of the lake
navigate	Used when talking about directing or managing the course of a vessel or vehicle, especially over a body of water, through the use of maps, compasses, or navigation systems. Often has a broader usage beyond just water activities. He knew how to navigate the rough waters Modern technology makes it easier to navigate unknown territories

Examples of usage

We decided to canoe down the peaceful stream.
They plan to canoe across the lake tomorrow.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'canoe' comes from the Arawakan word 'kanoe', meaning 'dugout', a reference to the early canoes made by hollowing out trees.
The term has been used in the English language since the 16th century, highlighting its long history in global cultures.

Cultural Significance

Many Indigenous cultures in North America and around the world developed unique canoe styles that reflected their environment and lifestyle.
Canoeing tournaments and races are held worldwide, showcasing traditional and modern paddling skills.

Science and Technology

Canoes come in various materials such as wood, aluminum, and modern composites, each affecting performance and usage.
The design of a canoe maximizes efficiency and stability on the water, influenced by hydrodynamics.

Recreation and Tourism

Canoeing is a popular recreational activity that promotes health, fitness, and exploration of nature.
Ecotourism has increased the popularity of canoeing trips in national parks, providing a low-impact way to enjoy scenic landscapes.

Literature

Canoes often symbolize adventure and exploration in literature, depicting journeys into the unknown.
Several famous American stories feature canoes as a means of adventure, such as Mark Twain's 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'.

Translations

Translations of the word "canoe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 canoa

🇮🇳 डोंगी

🇩🇪 Kanu

🇮🇩 kanu

🇺🇦 каное

🇵🇱 kanoe

🇯🇵 カヌー (kanū)

🇫🇷 canoë

🇪🇸 canoa

🇹🇷 kano

🇰🇷 카누 (kanu)

🇸🇦 زورق

🇨🇿 kánoe

🇸🇰 kanoe

🇨🇳 独木舟 (dúmùzhōu)

🇸🇮 kanu

🇮🇸 kanó

🇰🇿 каноэ

🇬🇪 კანოე (kanoe)

🇦🇿 kanoe

🇲🇽 canoa

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,524 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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9521 adjective
9522 cordial
9523 summed
9524 canoe
9525 optimism
9526 cords
9527 textual
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