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larboard

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈlɑːrbɔːrd/

KK: /ˈlɑrˌbɔrd/

adjective
Definition

Referring to the left side of a ship when facing forward.


Example

The crew gathered on the larboard side to prepare for departure.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you notice the larboard side of the ship was really crowded?
Sloth B
Yeah, it seemed like everyone wanted to see the view from there.
Sloth A
I wonder why they call it larboard instead of just port.
Sloth B
It's an old nautical term, but it's good to know the lingo!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
port
left
side
Antonyms
starboard
right
opposite
noun
Definition

The left side of a ship when facing forward.


Example

The crew gathered on the larboard side to watch the sunset.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know the opposite of starboard is larboard?
Sloth B
Really? I always thought it was just called left.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's a nautical term that refers to the left side of a ship.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Larboard originates from Middle English 'larborde', which comes from Old English 'laer' (meaning left) and 'bord' (meaning side). The term refers to the left side of a ship when facing forward.

Memory Tip

Think of 'left' ('laer') and 'side' ('bord') to remember that 'larboard' refers to the left side of a ship.

Visually Confused Words
flareboard
tarboard
lapboard
garboard
aboard
starboard
flaxboard
dartboard
Is this page helpful?
That's interesting! I guess I need to brush up on my sailing vocabulary.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
port
Antonyms
starboard