Definition

Noun: A slipway is a structure, typically a ramp or a sloping pathway, that leads from land down into a body of water. It is used for launching newly built ships into the water or for hauling ships out of the water for construction, maintenance, or repair.

Usage

A slipway is a specialized construction found at shipyards, docks, or marinas. It is designed to support the weight of a vessel and allow it to move smoothly between the water and dry land. The term is used in the contexts of shipbuilding, boat maintenance, and maritime operations.

Examples

• The new fishing boat was carefully moved down the slipway for its launch into the harbor.
• During the storm, the yacht was safely hauled up the slipway to prevent damage.
• The shipyard's main slipway was busy with workers preparing to launch a cargo ship.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on the slipway": This phrase can describe a ship that is in the final stages of being built or prepared for launch.
  • The new ferry is already on the slipway and will be launched next month.

Variants and Related Words

• Launching ways: A more technical term often used synonymously with "slipway," referring specifically to the tracks or structure used for a ship's launch.
• Marine railway: A type of slipway that uses a cradle on rails to move vessels in and out of the water.
• Dry dock: A different, but related, facility where a ship is enclosed and water is pumped out for repairs, as opposed to being hauled up a sloping slipway.

Synonyms

• Ways (as in "shipways" or "launching ways")
• Launch ramp
• Boat ramp (though this typically refers to a smaller, simpler structure for recreational boats)

Related Phrases

• To go down the slipway: To be launched.
  • The historic ship will go down the slipway in a special ceremony.
• To come up the slipway: To be hauled out of the water for work.
  • The damaged sailboat had to come up the slipway for a hull inspection.

Noun

1. structure consisting of a sloping way down to the water from the place where ships are built or repaired