Definition

Noun: A small boat propelled by oars. It is an open boat designed to be moved through the water by the manual effort of one or more people using oars.

Usage

A "rowing boat" is a specific type of small watercraft. The term is used to describe the boat itself, focusing on its primary means of propulsion. - It is typically used for recreation, fishing, or exercise on calm waters like lakes, rivers, or sheltered coastal areas. - The phrase is a compound noun where "rowing" acts as an adjective describing the type of "boat."

Examples

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metaphorically to imply slow, manual, or effortful progress, often in contrast to more powered or efficient methods.
  • In the age of digital communication, sending letters feels like crossing an ocean in a rowing boat.

Variants and Related Words

• Rowboat: A common synonym and variant spelling, especially in American English.
• Dinghy: A small boat, which can sometimes be a rowing boat but may also have a sail or motor.
• Skiff: A light rowing boat, often used for fishing.
• Scull: A light, narrow rowing boat designed for racing or exercise.
• Oar: The long pole with a flat blade used for rowing.

Synonyms

• Rowboat
• Oarboat
• Pulling boat (a more technical term)

Related Phrases and Idioms

• To rock the boat: To cause trouble or disrupt a stable situation. (Note: This idiom uses "boat" generally, not specifically "rowing boat").
  • Everything is going smoothly, so please don't rock the boat.

Noun

1. a rowboat