Definition

The lowest speed at which a ship or boat can be controlled by its steering mechanism.

Example

The captain ordered the ship to reach steerageway before attempting to turn.

Conversation

Do you remember the last time we went sailing?

Of course! We had to reach a good steerageway to turn the boat properly.

Yeah, and I was really nervous about controlling the rudder.

You did great! Once we found that steerageway, everything felt smooth.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Steerageway is formed from "steer" (from Old English "styran", meaning to guide or direct) and "way" (from Old English "weg", meaning a path or road). The term refers to the way or path that a vessel can be directed or guided through the water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'guiding' ('steer') a 'path' ('way') through the water — that's what steerageway means.

Visually Confused Words