Companionway: meaning, definitions and examples
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companionway
[ kəmˈpænjənˌweɪ ]
nautical term
A companionway is a set of steps or a staircase that leads from the deck of a ship or boat down into the cabin or interior living space. It often serves as the main access point between different levels of the vessel. Companionways are designed to provide safe, easy passage for passengers and crew, especially in inclement weather. They can vary in size and design depending on the type of vessel and its intended use.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The sailor ascended the companionway to check the weather.
- They installed a hatch cover over the companionway for added protection.
- He heard footsteps coming down the companionway.
- She slipped while climbing the companionway and caught herself just in time.
Translations
Translations of the word "companionway" in other languages:
🇵🇹 escada de acesso
🇮🇳 साथी मार्ग
🇩🇪 Treppe
🇮🇩 jalan akses
🇺🇦 доступний шлях
🇵🇱 korytarz
🇯🇵 コンパニオンウェイ
🇫🇷 couloir
🇪🇸 pasillo
🇹🇷 merdiven
🇰🇷 통로
🇸🇦 ممر
🇨🇿 schodiště
🇸🇰 schodisko
🇨🇳 通道
🇸🇮 hodnik
🇮🇸 gönguleið
🇰🇿 құрылыс жолы
🇬🇪 გადასასვლელი
🇦🇿 yol
🇲🇽 pasillo
Etymology
The word 'companionway' originates from the nautical term 'companion,' which refers to a fellow companion or shipmate. The term was adopted in the late 17th century to describe the stairs leading down into the quarters of a ship. Its roots can be traced back to the French word 'compagnon,' meaning 'companion.' The addition of 'way' signifies a path or method of access, further emphasizing the function of this architectural feature on ships. Over the years, the term has maintained its specialized meaning within maritime contexts and is used primarily by those familiar with sea travel and boating.