Definition

1. Noun:
   • A vessel of limited size for navigation on water: A "small ship" is a watercraft that is not large in physical dimensions, typically smaller than standard commercial or naval vessels.
   • A boat or craft of modest proportions: It refers to any seagoing or river-going vessel characterized by its relatively compact size, often used for personal, recreational, or light commercial purposes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • They sailed across the bay in a small ship. (They used a vessel of limited size for the journey.)
  • The harbor was cluttered with fishing boats and other small ships. (The port contained many vessels of modest proportions.)
  • A small ship is more maneuverable in these narrow canals. (A compact watercraft has better handling in tight waterways.)

Advanced Usage

• "small-ship cruise": A type of voyage utilizing vessels with lower passenger capacity, often allowing access to smaller ports.
  • We prefer a small-ship cruise for a more intimate experience.
• In historical or literary contexts, it can imply a vessel of a bygone era or a specific, humble type.
  • The explorers set out in a small ship, braving the unknown ocean.

Variants and Related Words

• Boat: (n) A more general term for a small vessel, often used interchangeably, though "ship" traditionally implies greater size or seaworthiness.
• Vessel: (n) A broader term for any ship or large boat.
• Craft: (n) A general term for a boat, ship, or aircraft.
• Small-boat: (n) A compound term emphasizing the small size, often for non-seagoing use.

Synonyms

• Boat
• Vessel (when context implies modest size)
• Craft
• Dinghy (a specific type of very small boat)

Antonyms

• Large ship
• Liner
• Tanker
• Freighter

Related Phrases

• Coastal vessel: A ship designed for travel near the coast, often small to medium in size.
• Pleasure craft: A boat or ship used for personal recreation, which is often a small ship.

Noun

1. a ship that is small