Oar

/ɔr/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A long pole with a broad, flat blade at one end, used for rowing or steering a boat.

He used a single oar to propel the canoe across the tranquil lake.

A device used to move a boat through water by pushing against the water.

The crew synchronized their movements as they dipped the oars into the water.

A means of guiding or controlling movement, as in the phrase 'to steer with the oars'.

She quickly adjusted the direction of the boat by pulling hard on the oar.

Old English 'ār', of West Germanic origin.

pulling an oar

To work together or contribute to a task.

shoving off

To leave or depart (often while using oars to start moving).

paddle

A similar tool used for propulsion in water.

boat

A small vessel for traveling or fishing.

To row faster or with more effort.

We're in a race, so let's oar it up!

To contribute more actively.

Come on, don't just sit there—oar a little!