rowing machine

American  

[roh-ing] / ˈroʊ ɪŋ /

noun

1. an exercise machine having a mechanism with two oarlike handles, foot braces, and a sliding seat, allowing the user to go through the motions of rowing in a racing shell.

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rowing machine British  

noun

1. a device with oars and a sliding seat resembling a sculling boat, used to provide exercise

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Etymology

Origin of rowing machine

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75

Example Sentences

I have a rowing machine next to my desk, so when I’m writing, I just get out of the chair, do some rowing, and then I continue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

He also has a fitness room with weights, treadmill and a rowing machine, while three parakeets fly around the complex.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 6, 2024

Even the kind of rowing machine Zott uses has seen a spike in sales.

From New York Times • Nov. 16, 2022

And if you've ever spent time on a rowing machine before, you'll know it's not an easy task.

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2022

He did, however, come across an old discarded rowing machine of Mr. Little’s, and becoming interested in this, carried it upstairs with some difficulty and spent the rest of the morning rowing.

From "Stuart Little" by E.B. White