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Portage: meaning, definitions and examples

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portage

 

[ ˈpɔːr.tɪdʒ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

transportation method

Portage refers to the act of carrying a boat or its cargo overland, thereby bypassing an obstacle such as a waterfall or shallow water. This term is primarily used in the context of canoeing, kayaking, and other water-based activities. The process requires physical effort and coordination, as one must safely navigate the terrain while balancing the load. Additionally, portage can refer to the routes or paths that are used for this purpose.

Synonyms

carriage, transport

Examples of usage

  • The group had to do a portage around the rapids.
  • He studied the portage routes before their canoe trip.
  • Portage can be exhausting but rewarding.
  • They finished the portage just before sunset.

Translations

Translations of the word "portage" in other languages:

🇵🇹 transporte

🇮🇳 पोर्टेज़

🇩🇪 Transport

🇮🇩 angkutan

🇺🇦 вантажоперевезення

🇵🇱 transport

🇯🇵 ポータージュ

🇫🇷 portage

🇪🇸 transporte

🇹🇷 taşıma

🇰🇷 운송

🇸🇦 نقل

🇨🇿 přeprava

🇸🇰 preprava

🇨🇳 运输

🇸🇮 prevoz

🇮🇸 flutningur

🇰🇿 тасымалдау

🇬🇪 ტრანსპორტი

🇦🇿 daşıma

🇲🇽 transporte

Etymology

The term 'portage' originates from the French word 'porter', meaning 'to carry'. It was incorporated into English in the early 19th century, reflecting the practices of transporting goods and boats overland in North America. The necessity of portaging arose with the exploration and navigation of rivers that were often interrupted by rapids, waterfalls, or narrow channels. This practice became integral to the fur trade, where trappers and traders needed to navigate complex waterways. Over time, the concept of portage evolved to include recreational activities, particularly in canoeing and kayaking, becoming a significant part of outdoor adventure culture today.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,869, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.