Definition

1. Noun:
   • The front part of a ship or boat; the bow: The "prow" is the forwardmost part of a vessel that cuts through the water.
   • A projecting front part: By extension, it can refer to any similar projecting front part of an object.

Usage

• The term "prow" is primarily used in nautical contexts to describe the front section of a ship or boat. It is a more literary or technical synonym for "bow."
• It can be used metaphorically to describe the leading or most forward part of something.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The ship's prow sliced cleanly through the waves.
  • Ice accumulated on the prow during the Arctic voyage.
  • The figurehead was mounted proudly on the ancient vessel's prow.

Advanced Usage

• "to cleave the water with its prow": A poetic or descriptive phrase for a ship moving forward.
  • The sleek yacht cleaved the water with its prow.

Variants and Related Words

• Bow (n): The more common term for the front of a ship. "Prow" and "bow" are often used interchangeably, though "prow" can sound more archaic or literary.
• Stem (n): A technical nautical term for the very front structural part of the hull, often considered part of the prow/bow.
• Fore (adj/n): Relating to or situated at the front of a ship (e.g., the foredeck).

Synonyms

• Bow: The front of a ship.
• Forepart: The front section.
• Nose (informal/metaphorical): A non-nautical term sometimes used for a projecting front part.

Antonyms

• Stern: The rear part of a ship or boat.
• Aft: The back portion of a vessel.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Proud as the prow of a ship": An expression describing something that stands out prominently or with great dignity, likening it to the distinctive front of a vessel.
  • The old mansion stood on the hill, proud as the prow of a ship.

Noun

1. front part of a vessel or aircraft
   • he pointed the bow of the boat toward the finish line