scull

American  

[skuhl] / skʌl /

noun

1. an oar mounted on a fulcrum at the stern of a small boat and moved from side to side to propel the boat forward.

2. either of a pair of oars rowed by one rower.

3. a boat propelled by an oar or oars.

4. a light, narrow racing boat for one, two, or sometimes four rowers, each equipped with a pair of oars.

5. sculls, a race involving such boats.

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verb (used with object)

1. to propel or convey by means of a scull or sculls.

verb (used without object)

1. to propel a boat with a scull or sculls.

scull British  

/ skʌl /

noun

1. a single oar moved from side to side over the stern of a boat to propel it

2. one of a pair of short-handled oars, both of which are pulled by one oarsman, esp in a racing shell

3. a racing shell propelled by an oarsman or oarsmen pulling two oars

4. (plural) a race between racing shells, each propelled by one, two, or four oarsmen pulling two oars

5. an act, instance, period, or distance of sculling

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verb

1. to propel (a boat) with a scull

Other Word Forms

• sculler noun

Etymology

Origin of scull

1300–50; Middle English sculle < ?

Example Sentences

In scull rowing, the athlete propels the boat by swinging two oars at the same time.

From Salon • Aug. 7, 2021

Great Britain's 2020 Olympic rowing frustration continued as Vicky Thornley was edged out of a medal despite a late push in the women's single scull.

From BBC • Jul. 29, 2021

Usually twice a week since August, I ease myself into a one-person scull, push away from the dock, do “eggbeater” drills to remind myself of the boat’s feel.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 20, 2020

A few years later, someone invited her to an adaptive rowing clinic where she strapped into a specially equipped scull and, given her affinity for the water, was hooked.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 16, 2020

We have seen Kelley scull on a sliding seat.

From Boating by Woodgate, W. B.

Related Words

• drift
• navigate
• slop
• splash
• wade