Ferryboat

/ˈfɛriˌboʊt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A boat or ship used to carry people, vehicles, or goods across a body of water, typically on a regular schedule.
We took the ferryboat across the river to reach the island.
A vessel designed for service in transporting vehicles and passengers without a permanent landing structure.
The ferryboat was crowded with cars and families headed to the beach.
A boat that operates between two points in a limited area, often not allowed to dock at other places.
The local ferryboat connects the two shores of the lake every hour.

Etymology

The word 'ferry' comes from the Old English 'ferian', meaning to carry.

Common Phrases and Expressions

ferrying across
Transporting someone or something across a body of water.
ferry service
A service that operates ferryboats on a schedule.
ferry ride
A journey made on a ferryboat.

Related Words

ferry
A boat that takes people and goods across water.
barge
A flat-bottomed boat used for carrying freight.
transport
The act of moving people or goods from one place to another.

Slang Meanings

Ferry service, often used in a casual context.
We're taking the ferry to the concert.
A casual term for a boat ride, especially for fun.
Let's take a little ferry ride this weekend.