Word: Stokehole
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A stokehole is a specific area or compartment on a ship where the furnaces (or boilers) are fueled, typically with coal or other materials, to produce steam for the ship's engines. It is an important part of a ship's machinery, especially in older ships that use steam power.
Usage Instructions:
Example Sentence:
Advanced Usage:
In a more technical or historical context, you might encounter discussions about the efficiency of different stokeholes in various classes of ships or how stokeholes were designed to improve safety and efficiency during long voyages.
Word Variants:
Stoker: This refers to the person who works in the stokehole, feeding fuel into the furnace.
Stoking: This is the act of adding fuel to the furnace in the stokehole.
Different Meanings:
The word "stoke" (the verb form) means to add fuel to a fire or to encourage or increase something (like enthusiasm or feelings), but in the context of "stokehole," it specifically refers to the act of fueling the ship's furnace.
Synonyms:
Furnace room: While not as common, this term can sometimes be used to describe a similar area on ships or in buildings.
Boiler room: This term can refer to a similar space where boilers are maintained and operated, though it might also apply to land-based facilities.
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
Stoke the fire: This idiom means to add fuel to a fire or to encourage a situation to become more intense, such as increasing excitement or tension.
Stoke up: This phrasal verb can mean to increase something, such as enthusiasm or energy.
Summary:
"Stokehole" is a nautical term focused on the operations of steam-powered ships. Understanding this word helps you appreciate maritime history and technology.