Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˈkɒkˌbəʊt/

Definitions

• 1. A small boat, especially one used for carrying people between a larger ship and the shore.
• 2. A small, usually rowing boat used by sailors for transportation or as a lifeboat.
• 3. (Informal) A type of boat often associated with leisure or pleasure cruising.

Usage Examples

• "The sailors lowered the cockboat to the water to transport supplies to the shore."
• "They took the cockboat out for a leisurely row around the bay on a sunny afternoon."
• "During the storm, the captain ordered the crew to climb into the cockboat to escape the sinking vessel."

Etymology

The term "cockboat" dates back to the 16th century and is believed to be derived from the combination of the word "cock," referring to a small or light boat, and "boat." The word "cock" in this context is a diminutive, indicating something small. It has been used historically to describe the small boats that were often lowered from larger ships for transport, as well as small, personal boats for leisure.

Synonyms

• Rowboat
• Skiff
• Dinghy
• Launch
• Tender

Antonyms

• Ship
• Vessel
• Boat (large)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈkɒkˌboʊt/
• British English: /ˈkɒkˌbəʊt/
• Australian English: /ˈkɒkˌboʊt/

Historical Usage

The term "cockboat" has been in use since the 16th century and was originally applied to small boats that were used on larger vessels for transport or rescue. These boats were typically used to carry people to and from the shore or other ships. Over time, the term has broadened to include smaller boats used for leisure or even as a metaphor for a small and humble vessel in literature and art.

Cultural Nuances

In literature and popular culture, the "cockboat" often symbolizes a small, intimate vessel. It is sometimes used metaphorically to represent a personal or private space, one that contrasts with larger, more public forms of transportation. It has also been used to describe boats that are launched in emergency situations, representing both a means of survival and a symbol of danger or urgency.

More Information

The cockboat was an essential piece of equipment on larger ships during the age of exploration and naval warfare. Its role as a lifeboat or means of transport between a ship and the shore was crucial. In modern times, the term is less commonly used, but it still evokes images of smaller, more personal boats. It serves as a reminder of both the practicalities of maritime travel and the romanticized notion of escaping to a simpler, smaller world aboard a small boat.