Rowing: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe the activity of moving a boat through water using oars, often as part of a sport or exercise. It can be done alone or in teams.

• She enjoys rowing on the lake every weekend.
• The rowing team practices early in the morning.

Most commonly used to describe propelling a canoe or kayak with a paddle. It can also refer to moving through shallow water with small, repetitive movements.

• We spent the afternoon paddling down the river in our kayaks.
• The children were paddling in the shallow end of the pool.

Refers specifically to a form of rowing where each rower uses two oars, one in each hand. It is often used in a competitive context, such as races.

• He has been sculling competitively for years.
• Sculling requires a great deal of skill and coordination.

Usually refers to the sport or activity of propelling a boat using oars.

• She joined the rowing team in college.
• They spent the afternoon rowing on the lake.

In the context of rowing, it refers to the action or single movement made while rowing. It can also mean a sudden disabling attack (such as a heart or brain stroke) or a gentle touch.

• The coach instructed on the proper rowing stroke.
• He suffered a stroke and was taken to the hospital.
• She gave the cat a gentle stroke on its back.

Refers to one complete circuit around a race track or pool. It can also mean the part of the body formed by the thighs when seated.

• He completed ten laps around the track.
• The baby fell asleep in her mother's lap.

Usually refers to the sport or activity of propelling a boat using oars. Often done competitively or as part of a team.

• She joined the rowing team at her university.
• Rowing is a great way to stay fit.

Refers to using a single-bladed oar, often in a canoe or kayak. Can also mean moving a small boat or a board through water by hand.

• They paddled the canoe down the river.
• He loves to paddle around the lake on his board.

Specifically refers to a type of rowing where each rower uses two oars, one in each hand. Usually associated with competitive or professional rowing.

• She practices sculling every morning on the lake.
• The sculling event was the highlight of the rowing competition.