porthole

American  

[pawrt-hohl, pohrt-] / ˈpɔrtˌhoʊl, ˈpoʊrt- /

noun

1. a round, windowlike opening with a hinged, watertight glass cover in the side of a vessel for admitting air and light.

2. an opening in a wall, door, etc., as one through which to shoot.

---

porthole British  

/ ˈpɔːtˌhəʊl /

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: port.  a small aperture in the side of a vessel to admit light and air, usually fitted with a watertight glass or metal cover, or both

2. an opening in a wall or parapet through which a gun can be fired; embrasure

---

Etymology

Origin of porthole

First recorded in 1585–95; port ⁴ + hole

Example Sentences

First of all, she needed a porthole to be able to see out.

From Literature

She was white, with billowing sails glowing against the evening sky, a neat foredeck, and six portholes.

From Literature

At least, though, it seemed confined to its little porthole, unable to do more than crane its neck and stare him down as Boaz drew himself uneasily to his feet.

From Literature

He’s even built a concrete fire shelter against a hillside with two steel escape doors and porthole windows.

From Los Angeles Times

“What a beautiful view,” Shepherd told the command center as he looked out the tiny porthole of his capsule, flying high enough to see the Earth’s curve.

From Literature

Related Words

• channel