canoe

American  

[kuh-noo] / kəˈnu /

noun

1. any of various slender, open boats, tapering to a point at both ends, propelled by paddles or sometimes sails and traditionally formed of light framework covered with bark, skins, or canvas, or formed from a dug-out or burned-out log or logs, and now usually made of aluminum, fiberglass, etc.

2. any of various small, primitive light boats.

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verb (used without object)

canoed, canoeing

1. to paddle a canoe.

2. to go in a canoe.

verb (used with object)

canoed, canoeing

1. to transport or carry by canoe.

idioms

1. paddle one's own canoe,

   1. to handle one's own affairs; manage independently.

   2. to mind one's own business.

canoe British  

/ kəˈnuː /

noun

1. a light narrow open boat, propelled by one or more paddles

2. another word for waka

3. of the same tribe

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verb

1. to go in a canoe or transport by canoe

canoe More Idioms  

1. see paddle one's own canoe.

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Other Word Forms

• canoeing noun
• canoeist noun

Etymology

Origin of canoe

1545–55; < French < Spanish canoa < Arawak; replacing canoa < Spanish

Example Sentences

I later found out that the photo had been taken on a canoe trip, which accounted for the extra-thick application of sunscreen.

From Los Angeles Times

On rafts and canoes made from the thick tule reeds, Yokut hunters fished for salmon, perch and sturgeon while the women waded far into the waters to dig for clams and mussels.

From Los Angeles Times

“So community members are already talking about purchasing small little boats and canoes and things like that, so they can get in and out of the community.”

From Los Angeles Times

“There’s no agency for that sad so-called Indian guy sitting in a canoe, crying,” Folsom said.

From Seattle Times

Hern visited them in a dugout canoe outfitted with a motor.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• kayak
• outrigger