cordelle

American  

[kawr-del] / kɔrˈdɛl /

noun

1. a heavy rope formerly used for towing boats on rivers in Canada and the U.S.

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verb (used with object)

cordelled, cordelling

1. to tow (a boat) by means of a cordelle.

Etymology

Origin of cordelle

1785–95; < French, diminutive of corde cord

Example Sentences

We then recrossed the river, and, after ascending a distance along the western shore, were repulsed in an attempt, with the cordelle, to pass Garlic Point.

From Scenes and Andventures in the Semi-Alpine Region of the Ozark Mountains of Missouri and Arkansas by Schoolcraft, Henry Rowe

We would tie up one more night; all hands at the cordelle and the poles, we would reach Mrs. O'Fallon's by noon, in time for dinner.

From The Rose of Old St. Louis by Dillon, Mary

Big men, bearded and powerful, pushing up stream with the cordelle on their shoulders!

From The River and I by Neihardt, John G.

I would be gazing wide-mouthed at the cordelle men.

From The River and I by Neihardt, John G.

Let’s go in the skiff; we can row and cordelle it up the river again, though it is a job.”

From The Hoosier School-boy by Eggleston, Edward