Definition

A type of boat or ship that is used to catch fish by dragging a large net through the water.

Example

The fisherman used a trawler to catch a large amount of shrimp.

Conversation

Have you ever been on a trawler?

No, I haven't, but it sounds exciting!

I went on one last summer, and it was amazing to see how they fish.

That does sound cool! I’d love to try it sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Trawler → The word originates from the verb 'trawl' (from Middle English *trawlen*, meaning to drag or pull), combined with the suffix '-er' (meaning a person who). A trawler is a person or vessel that drags a net through the water to catch fish.

Memory Tip

Think of someone 'dragging' ('trawl') a net through the water — that's why a trawler is a person or boat that catches fish.

Visually Confused Words