becalmed
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /bɪˈkɑːmɪd/
KK: /bɪˈkɑmɪd/
adjective
Definition
Unable to move because there is no wind, often used to describe a ship that is stuck in calm waters.
Example
The ship was becalmed for several days, waiting for the wind to pick up.
Conversation
Did you hear about the sailing trip that got becalmed?
Yeah, I read that they were stuck for hours without any wind.
That must have been so frustrating for them!
Definitely, just sitting there waiting for the breeze to pick up.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
still
motionless
quiet
Antonyms
active
agitated
restless
verb
Definition
To make a ship or boat unable to move by preventing the wind from blowing on its sails.
Example
The sailors were becalmed for several days, waiting for the wind to return.
Tense Forms
Past: becalmed
Past Participle: becalmed
Conversation
Did you hear about the sailing trip that got becalmed?
Yeah, I heard they were stuck for hours without wind.
I can't believe they had to wait so long to get moving again.
Root Explanation
Becalmed → It is formed from the prefix "be-" (meaning to cause to be) and the root "calm" (from Old French *calme*, meaning peaceful or quiet). The word "becalmed" means to be made calm or to be in a state of calmness, especially in reference to a ship that is unable to move due to lack of wind.
Memory Tip
Think of being 'caused to be' calm — 'be-' means to cause, and 'calm' refers to a peaceful state. This helps you remember that 'becalmed' means to be made calm.
Visually Confused Words
beamed
becolme