bow thruster

American  

[bou] / baʊ /

noun

1. a propeller located in a ship's bow to provide added maneuverability, as when docking.

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Etymology

Origin of bow thruster

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Other faults have since been found with a coupling and a bow thruster, and it is likely to be out of action until early next week.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

According to filings, various control systems, including controls for Pamina’s engines and remote controls for its engines and bow thruster, “failed to operate properly.”

From Seattle Times • May 28, 2023

On Thursday, there were also technical issues with the MV Clansman's bow thruster, used for manoeuvring, with the MV Isle of Mull operating the service instead.

From BBC • Apr. 22, 2022

Neither was the decision to offer an optional bow thruster; the thruster makes docking and undocking the 29 a snap, even in the most trying wind and current conditions.

From Time Magazine Archive

As we began to pull ahead in an ever-flattening arc, Jay deftly played the bow thruster and starboard engine controls until we were in the center of the fairway and headed for open water.

From Time Magazine Archive