Multihull: meaning, definitions and examples
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multihull
[ ˈmʌltiˌhʌl ]
type of boat
A multihull is a type of boat or ship that has more than one hull. These vessels can include catamarans and trimarans, which are popular for their stability and speed. Multihulls are often used for recreational sailing and competitive racing, offering advantages in terms of performance compared to traditional monohull boats.
Synonyms
catamaran, double-hull, trimaran
Examples of usage
- The multihull catamaran sailed smoothly across the water.
- We decided to charter a multihull for our sailing trip.
- Multihull boats are favored by many sailors for their speed.
- The race featured several impressive multihulls.
Etymology
The term 'multihull' originates from the combination of 'multi,' meaning many, and 'hull,' referring to the watertight body of a ship. The first recorded use of the word dates back to the mid-20th century as the popularity of such vessels began to rise, particularly in the sailing community. Historically, multihull designs can be traced back to ancient Polynesian outrigger canoes, which exhibited principles of stability and buoyancy. Contemporary multihulls have evolved significantly, integrating advanced materials and design techniques to enhance performance and comfort. Today, they are widely recognized for their efficiency in various marine activities, from leisure sailing to professional racing.