shallow-draught
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Describing a boat or ship that requires only a small depth of water to float and operate, because its hull (especially the keel) does not extend far below the water's surface. This allows it to navigate in shallow waters like rivers, canals, or coastal areas.
Usage
This adjective is used specifically to describe the physical design and capability of a vessel. It is typically placed before a noun. * The shallow-draught ferry can operate on the river even during the dry season. * We need a shallow-draught vessel to explore the mangrove swamps.
Advanced Usage
- The term is often used in maritime, shipping, and engineering contexts to specify a vessel's operational limitations and advantages.
- It can be used predicatively: "The barge is shallow-draught, which makes it perfect for canal work."
Variants and Related Words
- Shallow-draft (Adjective): An alternative spelling, more common in American English. It has the identical meaning.
- The marina caters to shallow-draft sailboats.
- Draught (Noun - British English): The depth of water a ship needs to float. Also spelled "draft" in American English.
- Deep-draught / Deep-draft (Adjective): The opposite, describing vessels that require a great depth of water.
Synonyms
- Shoal-draft (Adjective): A less common synonym with the same meaning.
- Light-draft (Adjective): Similar, emphasizing the vessel's low vertical displacement in the water.
Antonyms
- Deep-draught / Deep-draft (Adjective)
- Ocean-going (Adjective): While not a direct antonym, ocean-going vessels typically have a deep draught.
Adjective
- of vessels whose keel is not far below the waterline
- a shallow-draft river boat