trimaran
Noun: A trimaran is a type of multihull sailboat characterized by having three parallel hulls. The central hull is typically the largest, with two smaller outrigger hulls (called amas) attached on either side by lateral beams. This design provides exceptional stability and speed compared to single-hulled (monohull) vessels.
The word "trimaran" is used to specifically identify this three-hulled sailing vessel. It is a countable noun. * The trimaran capsized during the storm but righted itself due to its stable design. * They sailed across the Pacific Ocean in a custom-built trimaran. * Racing trimarans are often seen in high-speed offshore competitions.
- As a modifier: The word can be used attributively to describe other nouns related to this type of boat.
- trimaran design, trimaran technology, a trimaran sailor.
- Monohull (noun): A boat with a single hull. (Contrast with trimaran and catamaran).
- Catamaran (noun): A boat with two parallel hulls of equal size.
- Multihull (noun): A general term for any boat with more than one hull, encompassing catamarans and trimarans.
- Ama (noun): The term for each of the smaller outrigger hulls on a trimaran or proa.
- Triple-hulled sailboat
- Multihull (this is a broader category that includes trimarans)
The definition is specific to sailing vessels. While the three-hulled structure is the core characteristic, the term almost exclusively refers to wind-powered boats. A three-hulled motorized vessel would typically be described as a "power trimaran" or a "motor trimaran" to specify the propulsion method.
- a fast sailboat with 3 parallel hulls