tugboat

American  

[tuhg-boht] / ˈtʌgˌboʊt /

noun

1. a small, powerful boat for towing or pushing ships, barges, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of tugboat

An Americanism dating back to 1820–30; tug + boat

Example Sentences

Four bulk carriers, three container ships, a tugboat, an oil drilling vessel and a cargo ship also reported explosions, strikes or suspicious activity in the area to UKMTO.

From Barron's

Filipino sailor George Miranda was racing to help a stricken vessel aboard the tugboat Mussafah 2 when he last spoke to his wife and young daughter.

From Barron's

In addition, three bulk carriers, two container ships, a tugboat, and an oil drilling vessel have reported explosions, strikes, or suspicious activity in the area.

From Barron's

But gale force winds led to the crew and tugboats having to evacuate and the ship was left to ride out the storm for several hours.

From BBC

Emergency response measures were immediately activated with the vessel's crew, port fire brigade and assisting tugboats after a fire broke out on the forward section of the ship, the company's statement added.

From BBC