Steamboat: meaning, definitions and examples

Informally used to describe a steam-powered vessel, especially smaller boats that travel on rivers or lakes.

• We took a nostalgic ride down the Mississippi River on an old steamboat.
• The steamboat puffed smoke as it made its way across the calm lake.

Specifically refers to a steamboat propelled by paddle wheels, often used in historical or tourist contexts.

• The paddle steamer glided gracefully through the water, its wheels churning up sprays.
• They enjoyed a dinner cruise on a beautifully restored paddle steamer.

Describes larger steam-powered ships, generally used for ocean or longer journeys; can also refer to cargo and passenger ships.

• The steamship embarked on a journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
• In the 19th century, steamships revolutionized sea travel and global trade.

Used to refer to a boat that is powered by a steam engine. Often used in historical contexts when talking about the early days of steam-powered transportation on rivers and lakes.

• The Mark Twain steamboat was a popular attraction in the early 20th century.
• During the 1800s, steamboats were a significant mode of transportation on the Mississippi River.

Specifically refers to a boat that uses paddle wheels to move through the water. This term often highlights the boat's unique method of propulsion and can evoke a nostalgic connection to river travel during the 19th century.

• The old paddle wheeler made its way down the river, evoking memories of a bygone era.
• We took a scenic cruise on a paddle wheeler and enjoyed the historic charm.

Used for boats that have a paddle wheel at the stern (rear) of the boat. These boats are typically associated with specific regions or periods, especially in reference to American river travel.

• The sternwheeler cruised slowly through the calm waters of the Mississippi River.
• Exploring the Columbia River on a sternwheeler offered a unique glimpse into the past.