Definition

1. Noun:
   • A holder attached to the gunwale of a boat that holds the oar in place and acts as a fulcrum for rowing: A "thole" is a fixed peg or pin, typically one of a pair, set into the side of a boat to secure an oar and provide a pivot point for rowing.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The old wooden dinghy still had its original wooden tholes.
  • He placed the oar against the thole and began to row.

Advanced Usage

• "Thole pin": This is a common variant term for "thole," emphasizing its pin-like form.
  • The rower replaced the worn thole pin before setting out.

Variants and Related Words

• Thole pin (n): A synonym for "thole."
• Rowlock (n): A similar device, often a U-shaped swiveling holder, serving the same purpose as a thole. While functionally similar, a rowlock is often a different mechanical design.

Synonyms

• Oarlock: A general term for a device that holds an oar.
• Pivot: Describes the fulcrum function of the thole.

Noun

1. a holder attached to the gunwale of a boat that holds the oar in place and acts as a fulcrum for rowing