taffrail

American  

[taf-reyl, -ruhl] / ˈtæfˌreɪl, -rəl /

noun

Nautical.

1. the upper part of the stern of a ship.

2. a rail above the stern of a ship.

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taffrail British  

/ ˈtæfˌreɪl /

noun

1. a rail at the stern or above the transom of a vessel

2. the upper part of the transom of a vessel, esp a sailing vessel, often ornately decorated

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Etymology

Origin of taffrail

1805–15; syncopated variant of taffarel; -ai- spelling Dutch -ee-

Example Sentences

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

Almost before the cigarette was alight, a jarring shock made the Calder tremble from her shattered bows to her jagged taffrail.

From Project Gutenberg

As we watched her there were signs of a struggle taking place on board--pistol-shots rang out, and a heavy form plunged over her taffrail.

From Project Gutenberg

We leaned against the taffrail, as the ship heeled under a wind, white caps racing after.

From Project Gutenberg

The members of the crew crowded along the taffrails on the starboard side of the ship, where they shouted to one another and pointed excitedly in the direction of the submarine.

From Project Gutenberg