rowlock

American  

[roh-lok, rol-uhk, ruhl-] / ˈroʊˌlɒk, ˈrɒl ək, ˈrʌl- /

noun

1. Architecture. one of several concentric rings of masonry forming an arch.

2. a brick laid on edge, especially as a header.

3. Chiefly British. oarlock.

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rowlock British  

/ ˈrɒlək /

noun

1. Usual US and Canadian word: oarlock. a swivelling device attached to the gunwale of a boat that holds an oar in place and acts as a fulcrum during rowing

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Etymology

Origin of rowlock

1740–50; variant of oarlock; see row ²

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

rowlock

Bono had, through his exertions—the boat being well nigh intractable, now swamped—snapped off the rowlock and a stave of the gunwale, wet with rot.

From "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume II: The Kingdom on the Waves" by M.T. Anderson

Anna paddled her way dexterously out from among the fleet of boats riding at anchor in the little bay; then she seated herself, adjusted one oar, and looked about for the other rowlock.

From Silver Pitchers: and Independence A Centennial Love Story by Louisa May Alcott

There was that in the steady clack—clack-a of oar on rowlock to soothe the tremors of our moment of excited haste.

From The Brassbounder A Tale of the Sea by David W. Bone

Then it won't slip out of the rowlock and sail off, leaving you to wait until somebody happens along to pick you up.

From Ethel Morton at Chautauqua by Mabell S. C. (Mabell Shippie Clarke) Smith

If the oars are pulled in rowlocks, the bottom of the rowlock is to be considered as the gunwale in measuring the depth of the boat.

From Loss of the Steamship 'Titanic' by British Government

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