A barge is a type of flat-bottomed boat that is used for transporting goods and people along rivers, canals, and other waterways. It is a large and sturdy vessel that is designed to carry heavy loads and navigate through shallow waters.
Definitions
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a barge is “a large flat-bottomed boat used for transporting goods, especially on canals and rivers.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a flat-bottomed boat used chiefly for the transport of goods on inland waterways and usually propelled by towing.”
Origin
The word “barge” comes from the Old French word “barque,” which means a small boat. It was first used in English in the 14th century to describe a small sailing vessel. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer to larger, flat-bottomed boats used for transporting goods.
Meaning in different dictionaries
- The Oxford English Dictionary defines a barge as “a large flat-bottomed boat used for transporting goods, especially on canals and rivers.”
- The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a long, narrow boat with a flat bottom, used for carrying goods on rivers and canals.”
Associations
Barges are often associated with transportation of heavy goods such as coal, timber, and building materials. They are also used for recreational purposes such as cruises and sightseeing tours.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of barge include flatboat, scow, lighter, and pontoon.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of barge include yacht, sailboat, and speedboat.
The same root words
Some words that share the same root as barge include bark, barque, and boat.
Example Sentences
- The barge was loaded with coal and ready to set sail down the river.
- We took a barge tour of the canals in Amsterdam and saw some beautiful sights.
- The company used a barge to transport the heavy machinery to the construction site.
- The barge captain navigated through the narrow canal with skill and precision.
- The barge was towed by a tugboat along the river.