Rowboat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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rowboat

[ˈrəʊbəʊt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

on water

A rowboat is a small boat that is propelled by oars. It is typically used for recreational purposes or short-distance transportation.

Synonyms

dinghy, punt, skiff.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rowboat	A small boat powered by rowing with oars, often used for recreation or fishing on calm water. They took a rowboat out to the middle of the lake for some peaceful fishing
dinghy	A small boat, often inflatable, typically used as a tender to larger boats or for short trips in shallow waters. The yacht had a dinghy for quick trips to the shore and back
skiff	A small, light boat used for rowing or sailing, often in seaside or river settings. He built a wooden skiff to navigate the calm coastal waters
punt	A flat-bottomed boat with a square-cut bow, designed for use in shallow water and traditionally propelled by a long pole. They enjoyed a relaxing afternoon punting on the river

Examples of usage

He took the rowboat out on the lake for some fishing.
The rowboat glided smoothly through the calm waters.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

competition

In competitive rowing, a rowboat is a long, narrow racing boat designed for a team of rowers. It is also known as a shell.

Synonyms

crew boat, racing boat, shell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rowboat	Duplicate entry of 'rowboat' identified earlier.
shell	A narrow, lightweight boat used in competitive rowing, particularly in races. It is long and slender, designed for speed over smooth water. The rowing team polished their shell before the big race
racing boat	A boat specifically designed for competitive racing, known for its speed and streamlined design. These can be used in various types of water sports including rowing and sailing. The team was excited to compete in their state-of-the-art racing boat
crew boat	A boat designed for crew rowing, usually with multiple rowers working together in a team. Commonly seen in competitive rowing or college sports. The university's crew team practiced in their new crew boat every morning

Examples of usage

The rowboat team trained hard for the upcoming regatta.
She rowed in a rowboat during her college years.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Rowboats have been used for centuries across various cultures, symbolizing simplicity and connection to nature.
In art and literature, rowboats often represent adventure, exploration, and serenity on water.

Science

A rowboat typically floats due to Archimedes' principle, meaning it displaces water equal to its weight.
The shape of a rowboat's hull affects how easily it moves through water, impacting speed and stability.

Recreation

Rowing can be a competitive sport, with teams racing in streamlined rowboats known as shells.
Rowboats are popular for leisurely activities like fishing and sightseeing on calm lakes and rivers.

History

Ancient Egyptians used rowboats made from papyrus reeds to navigate the Nile River.
During the Age of Exploration, rowboats were essential for reaching shore from larger ships.

Origin of 'rowboat'

Main points about word origin

The word 'row' comes from the Old English word 'rōwan,' which means 'to propel a boat with oars.'
The term 'boat' is derived from the Old Norse word 'bátr,' which referred to both small and large watercraft.

The word 'rowboat' originated in the early 16th century from the combination of the words 'row' (to propel with oars) and 'boat' (a small vessel for transport on water). Rowboats have been used for centuries as a primary mode of transportation and recreation on bodies of water around the world.