bum-boat

A small bum-boat approaches a large sailing ship to deliver fresh supplies.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small boat used to ferry supplies: "bum-boat" refers to a small vessel that carries provisions, goods, or passengers to and from ships anchored offshore, especially in harbours or ports.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The bum-boat brought fresh fruit and vegetables to the crew of the anchored freighter. (A small supply boat delivering provisions.)
  • In the old port, local bum-boats would row out to meet incoming ships with newspapers and mail. (Small ferry boats used for supplies.)

Advanced Usage

• "bum-boat trade": the business of supplying ships via small boats.
  • The bum-boat trade was a vital part of harbour economies before modern docks were built. (The industry of provisioning ships by small craft.)

Variants and Related Words

• Bum-boatman (n): a person who operates or works on a bum-boat.
  • The bum-boatman skillfully navigated the crowded harbour to reach the container ship. (The operator of a small supply boat.)

Synonyms

• Supply boat: a small vessel used to deliver goods to ships.
• Tender boat: a small boat that services larger vessels.

Related Idioms

• No direct idioms: the word "bum-boat" is highly specific and does not appear in common idiomatic expressions.