Definition

A small boat that is moved by using oars.

Example

They took a rowboat out onto the lake for a relaxing afternoon.

Conversation

Have you ever been in a rowboat?

Yeah, I went on one last summer at the lake.

That sounds fun! Did you paddle around for long?

We did! It was a relaxing way to enjoy the water.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rowboat → It is formed from "row" (from Old English *rowan*, meaning to propel a boat with oars) and "boat" (from Old English *bat*, meaning a small vessel for traveling on water). The word "rowboat" refers to a small vessel that is propelled by oars.

Memory Tip

Think of using oars to 'propel' ('row') a 'small vessel' ('boat') on the water — that's what a rowboat is.

Visually Confused Words