Definition

A large, flat-bottomed boat with square ends, mainly used for carrying heavy loads like sand, ore, or other materials.

Example

The scow was loaded with sand and ready to be transported to the construction site.

Conversation

I saw an old scow docked at the river yesterday.

Really? I haven't seen one of those in ages!

It looked like it was used for transporting sand.

Yeah, those boats have a lot of history behind them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'scow' originates from Middle Dutch 'scouwe', meaning a type of flat-bottomed boat or barge. It refers specifically to this kind of vessel used for transporting goods on rivers and lakes.

Memory Tip

Picture a flat-bottomed boat used for carrying things on water — that's what a 'scow' is.

Visually Confused Words