Definition

A wheelhouse is a part of a boat or ship where the steering wheel is located, often also used to refer to the area where the captain controls the vessel.

Example

The captain stood in the wheelhouse, carefully navigating the ship through the stormy waters.

Conversation

Did you see that new boat they launched at the marina?

Yeah, I heard it's got a really cool wheelhouse for navigation.

I can't wait to check it out; I love seeing how they design those things.

Same here! A well-designed wheelhouse can make such a difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wheelhouse → The word is formed from "wheel" (from Old English "hwēol", meaning a circular object that revolves) and "house" (from Old English "hūs", meaning a shelter or dwelling). A wheelhouse originally referred to a structure that houses the wheel, particularly on a boat or ship, where the steering wheel is located.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'circular object' ('wheel') that is kept in a 'shelter' ('house') — that's why a wheelhouse is a place where the steering wheel is located.

Visually Confused Words