taffrail
Americannoun
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the upper part of the stern of a ship.
-
a rail above the stern of a ship.
noun
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a rail at the stern or above the transom of a vessel
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the upper part of the transom of a vessel, esp a sailing vessel, often ornately decorated
Etymology
Origin of taffrail
1805–15; syncopated variant of taffarel; -ai- spelling Dutch -ee-
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Fresh-faced, slender, ebullient, radiating confidence, she was a dazzling figure in a swirling cotillion or at the taffrail of a steamer.
From New York Times ● Mar. 17, 2014
Enterprise had slipped away in the low breeze like a bird and, running far in the lead, hung over her taffrail in mockery her harbor sign, "Please Keep Astern."
From Time Magazine Archive
I staggered to the side on watery legs, straddled the taffrail, and looked down.
From Time Magazine Archive
Across the choppy Channel plowed the French destroyer Combattante, with the Tricolor whipping smartly from her taffrail.
From Time Magazine Archive
Captain Biddle then ordered the firing to cease, and leaping on the taffrail, inquired if the vessel had struck.
From The Second War with England, Vol. 2 of 2 by Joel Tyler Headley
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