Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Freighter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿšข
Add to dictionary

freighter

[หˆfreษชtษ™ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

shipping vessel

A freighter is a type of cargo ship specifically designed to transport goods and materials across bodies of water. Freighters vary widely in size and capacity, with some capable of carrying thousands of tons of cargo. They are utilized in international trade, often traveling long distances and facilitating the exchange of raw materials and finished goods. In addition to traditional bulk freighters, there are container ships, tankers, and general cargo ships, each serving different purposes within the shipping industry.

Synonyms

cargo carrier, cargo ship, transport vessel.

Examples of usage

  • The freighter sailed across the ocean carrying essential supplies.
  • Due to the storm, the freighter was rerouted to a safer port.
  • The company invested in a new fleet of freighters to increase shipping capacity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Transportation

  • Freighters are essential to global trade, moving about 90% of the world's cargo through ocean shipping.
  • These ships can vary in size from smaller coastal vessels to very large container ships carrying thousands of containers.

Technology

  • Modern freighters are equipped with advanced navigation systems and eco-friendly technologies to reduce their environmental impact.
  • They often have automated loading and unloading systems that enhance efficiency at ports.

History

  • Freighters have been used for centuries, with the first sailing vessels appearing in ancient civilizations for transporting goods.
  • The development of the steam engine in the 19th century revolutionized freighter designs, allowing them to carry more cargo faster.

Economics

  • Freighters play a crucial role in the economy by shipping raw materials to factories and finished products to consumers worldwide.
  • The shipping industry is a significant contributor to global GDP, emphasizing the importance of freighters in trade.

Origin of 'freighter'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'freighter' comes from the word 'freight,' which means goods transported by truck, train, ship, or aircraft.
  • It has its roots in Middle English, from Old French 'freit,' which is derived from the Latin word 'fructus,' meaning 'fruit or profit,' reflecting the idea of carrying goods.

The word 'freighter' comes from the late 19th century, derived from the Middle English term 'freight,' which traces back to the Old French 'fret' and the Latin 'freightum,' meaning 'to load or burden.' This etymology reflects the ship's primary function of carrying loads across water. Originally, freight referred to the cost associated with the transportation of goods, but its meaning has since evolved to encompass the vessels themselves that perform this service. The rise of global trade and commerce in the 20th century led to advancements in freighter design and technology, culminating in the modern container ships we see today, which revolutionized the shipping industry by allowing for standardized cargo handling.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,431, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.