Stow Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ฆ
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stow

[stoสŠ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

on a ship

To pack or store (cargo) in a ship's hold in a fixed position for transportation.

Synonyms

load, pack, store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stow

Used when placing items carefully into a specific, usually small, space, often for transport or storage.

  • Make sure to stow your luggage in the overhead compartment.
  • The sailor needed to stow all the gear properly before setting sail.
store

Used when putting items away for future use, usually in a designated place like a warehouse, closet, or cupboard; implies a longer-term keeping.

  • We need to store these documents in a safe place.
  • The harvest is stored in the silo until it's needed.
pack

Typically refers to placing items into bags, suitcases, or boxes in preparation for moving or travel; often involves organizing belongings.

  • She needs to pack her clothes for the trip.
  • Can you help me pack these gifts for shipping?
load

Commonly used when putting items onto or into a vehicle, container, or machine; implies the action of filling up.

  • We need to load the furniture onto the moving truck.
  • The workers are loading boxes into the cargo hold.

Examples of usage

  • The crew stowed the cargo carefully before setting sail.
  • She stowed her belongings in the ship's hold.
Context #2 | Verb

away in a safe place

To put something in a safe or secret place.

Synonyms

conceal, hide, store.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stow

Appropriate when talking about placing items carefully in a specific area, often in a travel or storage context.

  • She stowed her luggage in the overhead compartment.
  • Please stow away all your equipment after use.
hide

General term for making something difficult to see or find, can be used in both casual and serious contexts.

  • The children hid behind the curtains during the game.
  • He tried to hide his mistakes from his boss.
store

Usually refers to keeping items in a place where they can be used later, often with the implication of organization or care.

  • You can store these files in the cabinet.
  • Store the food in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
conceal

Used when there is an intention to keep something hidden or secret from others. It has a slightly negative connotation as it implies hiding something on purpose.

  • He concealed the letter under a pile of books.
  • She tried to conceal her disappointment.

Examples of usage

  • He stowed away his savings in a hidden compartment.
  • She stowed the key under the doormat.

Translations

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

Origin of 'stow'

The word 'stow' originated from Middle English 'stowen', which means to keep, put, or place. It has its roots in Old English 'stลwian', derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'staunijan'. The term evolved over time to encompass the idea of packing or storing items in a fixed position, both on ships and in general storage. The concept of 'stow' has been integral to transportation and safekeeping practices throughout history.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,162, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.