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Tanker: meaning, definitions and examples

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tanker

 

[ ˈtæŋ.kər ]

Noun
Vehicles
Context #1 | Noun

transportation vessel

A tanker is a type of ship designed for the bulk transport of liquid cargo. These vessels can carry various substances, including oil, chemicals, and liquefied natural gas. Tankers are essential in global trade as they facilitate the movement of petroleum and other liquids across oceans and waterways. The design of a tanker includes reinforced hulls and sophisticated pumping systems to handle the special requirements of transporting liquids safely and efficiently.

Synonyms

cargo ship, freighter, petroleum carrier

Examples of usage

  • The oil tanker sailed across the Atlantic.
  • A chemical tanker docked at the harbor.
  • The tanker was loaded with crude oil.
  • Their fleet includes various types of tankers.

Etymology

The word 'tanker' originates from the late 19th century. It is derived from the word 'tank', which itself comes from the Middle English word 'tancke', meaning a receptacle for liquids. The suffix '-er' denotes a person or thing performing a specified action; thus, a 'tanker' is a vessel or structure built for transporting liquid. Over time, the design of tankers has evolved to accommodate increasing volumes and variations of liquid cargo, becoming a vital component in marine logistics and global trading systems.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,307, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.