boating

American  

[boh-ting] / ˈboʊ tɪŋ /

noun

1. the use of boats, especially for pleasure.

   He enjoyed boating and swimming.

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adjective

1. of or relating to boats.

   boating clothes.

boating British  

/ ˈbəʊtɪŋ /

noun

1. the practice of rowing, sailing, or cruising in boats as a form of recreation

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Etymology

Origin of boating

First recorded in 1600–10; boat + -ing ¹, -ing ²

Example Sentences

There are world-class rapids where Olympian kayakers train and islands with boating and swimming clubs.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 19, 2026

A gale warning was also in effect for inner coastal waters, with officials discouraging boating until conditions improved.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

Edwardian author Kenneth Grahame's story of boating, caravanning and picnicking and the hi-jinks of a cross-dressing amphibian is also an ode to the English landscape.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

The village was initially developed as an exclusive resort for wealthy holidaymakers in the 19th Century, with the Meare boating lake inspired by the story of Peter Pan.

From BBC • Jan. 19, 2026

“Well, I like to hear about cricket and boating and hunting,” said Frank, who had not yet learned to suit his amusements to his strength.

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Related Words

• rowing
• sailing