Definition

A device that holds an oar in place, typically shaped like a U and attached to a boat, allowing for rowing.

Example

The rower adjusted the oarlock to secure the oar while paddling.

Conversation

I need to check if the oarlock is still in good condition before we go out on the water.

Good idea! A broken oarlock can really mess up our rowing experience.

Exactly! I don’t want to deal with that while we're out there.

Let’s make sure everything is working well before we launch the boat.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oarlock is formed from "oar" (from Old English "ār", meaning a tool for rowing) and "lock" (from Old English "locc", meaning a fastening or a device that secures). The word "oarlock" refers to a device that secures an oar in place while rowing.

Memory Tip

Think of an 'oar' as a tool for rowing that is 'secured' by a 'lock' — that's how an oarlock keeps the oar in place.

Visually Confused Words