Kayak Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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kayak
[ˈkaɪæk ]
Definitions
water sport
A small, narrow watercraft that is propelled by a double-bladed paddle. It is typically used for recreational purposes such as paddling on lakes and rivers.
Synonyms
canoe, paddleboat, raft.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kayak |
A kayak is suitable for solo or tandem trips on rivers, lakes, or oceans. It is typically enclosed or open with a small cockpit, designed for maneuverable and sport activities.
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| canoe |
A canoe is ideal for paddling on calm waters, such as lakes or slow-moving rivers. It is open on top and usually accommodates multiple people, making it perfect for family or group outings.
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| paddleboat |
A paddleboat is great for leisurely activities on small lakes or ponds. It is often powered by foot pedals, making it a fun and easy option for casual outings.
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| raft |
A raft is commonly used for adventures on rough, fast-moving waters like those encountered while whitewater rafting. It is typically an inflatable vessel, suitable for team efforts in navigating rapids.
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Examples of usage
- The group decided to go kayaking on the river this weekend.
- She rented a kayak and spent the afternoon exploring the lake.
- We saw a family of ducks while kayaking down the stream.
Inuit origin
An Inuit or Eskimo canoe made of a frame covered with skins except for a small opening in the center in which one man can kneel and propel himself with a double-bladed paddle.
Synonyms
Umiaq, skin boat.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kayak |
A kayak is usually a small, narrow watercraft which is typically propelled by means of a double-bladed paddle. It's commonly used in recreational activities and sports on lakes, rivers, and in the ocean.
|
| skin boat |
A skin boat, such as a traditional Inuit kayak or a umiak, is constructed with a wooden or bone frame that is covered with animal skins. It's mainly used by indigenous Arctic peoples for hunting and transportation across icy waters.
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| Umiaq |
An umiaq is a large open boat traditionally used by the Inuit and other Arctic peoples, typically for family transport and hunting in the Arctic regions. It is made from a wooden or whalebone frame covered with animal skins.
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Examples of usage
- The Inuit used kayaks for hunting seals in the Arctic waters.
- She learned how to build a traditional kayak during her visit to the Inuit community.
informal
To travel or move in a kayak.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| kayak |
Use 'kayak' when referring to a small, narrow watercraft typically used by one or two people, often in rivers, lakes, or the sea. It's propelled using a double-bladed paddle.
|
| paddle |
Use 'paddle' to refer to the tool used to propel canoes and kayaks. It can also be used as a verb meaning to move a boat using paddles.
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| row |
Use 'row' as a verb when talking about propelling a boat using oars. Typically, it refers to the action in larger boats or rowboats rather than canoes or kayaks.
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| canoe |
Use 'canoe' when talking about a lightweight boat, traditionally open on top, and usually paddled by one or more people using single-bladed paddles. It is often used on calm lakes or slow-moving rivers.
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Examples of usage
- We are planning to kayak along the coast next summer.
- They kayaked to the remote island for a camping trip.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Traditionally, kayaks were used by Inuit and other Arctic peoples for hunting and fishing.
- In modern sports, kayaking has evolved into a popular recreational activity and competitive sport, showcasing techniques like freestyle and slalom.
Science
- Kayaks are designed to be stable and are often made of materials like plastic, wood, or fiberglass, which affect their buoyancy.
- Hydrodynamics plays a huge role in kayak design, allowing for efficient movement through water.
Recreation
- Kayaking is an excellent way to explore nature, often done in rivers, lakes, and oceans.
- In many regions, kayaking tours and rentals are popular, allowing people to experience scenic waterways.
Environmental Impact
- Kayaking has a minimal carbon footprint compared to motorized watercraft, making it an eco-friendly choice.
- Many kayak enthusiasts participate in conservation efforts to protect water ecosystems and maintain natural habitats.
Origin of 'kayak'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'kayak' comes from the Inuit language, meaning 'hunter's boat'.
- Different cultures have various versions of kayaks, but the original design is believed to be thousands of years old, mainly from the Arctic.
The word 'kayak' originated from the Inuit language, where it referred to a small hunting boat made of animal skins stretched over a wooden frame. The word was first recorded by Europeans in the early 17th century during their interactions with the indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions. Over time, kayaks have evolved from traditional skin boats to modern recreational watercraft used for various water activities.