How Do You Spell ROWLOCK?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈə͡ʊlɒk] (IPA)

Rowlock is a term used in boating that refers to the metal or wooden device that supports and guides the oar. The word is spelled with a "w" in the middle which is pronounced as a supplemental sound, meaning that it does not modify the sound of the letter "o". The IPA transcription for rowlock is /ˈrɒlək/, with the accent on the first syllable and the final "k" sound being slightly emphasized. Rowlocks are an essential part of rowing, allowing for more efficient and controlled paddling.

ROWLOCK Meaning and Definition

1. A rowlock, also known as a oarlock or a rowing thole, refers to a device utilized in rowing boats or small watercraft for securing and pivoting the oars. It is a U-shaped, metal or wooden component that is typically affixed to the gunwale or thwarts of a boat, serving as a socket for the oar to rotate and provide leverage for rowing.

   The rowlock consists of two curved arms joined together at one end, forming a semicircular or hoop-shaped structure. One arm is usually longer and more extended than the other, while the shorter arm incorporates a vertical peg or pin that acts as a fulcrum for the oar's movement. Through its design, the rowlock ensures that the oar remains in place during rowing and permits a controlled, smooth movement for propulsion, enabling the rower to maneuver the boat efficiently.

   Rowlocks are crucial components in rowing since they support the oars and transmit the rower's force to the water. They are commonly found in various types of boats such as rowboats, dinghies, canoes, and sometimes even larger vessels. Rowlocks are often made from durable materials like metal (such as stainless steel or brass) or wood (such as ash or oak) to withstand the forces and wear associated with rowing.

   The invention of rowlocks revolutionized rowing and significantly improved boat handling and speed, allowing for more effective navigation in both calm and rough waters.

Common Misspellings for ROWLOCK

• frolock
• worlock
• ridlock
• rollock
• roelock
• rowloc
• roulock
• Houlock
• rawlock
• roulok
• noploce
• rowloff
• Kowhock

Etymology of ROWLOCK

The word "rowlock" has an interesting etymology. It originated from Middle English "rolok", which was a combination of the Old English words "rōwan" (to row) and "loc" (a variant of "lāc", meaning "play, sport").

The term "rowlock" refers to the device located on the gunwale (upper edge) of a boat, often made of metal or wood, which holds the oar in place during rowing. It allows the rower to exert force and control the movement of the boat.

Over time, the word "rolok" transformed into "rowlock" in English, while in some other languages, such as German, it became "Ruderlag", with "Ruder" meaning "rudder" and "Lag" denoting a "joint" or "bearing".

Similar spelling words for ROWLOCK

• rolls,
• Roles,
• rollick.

Plural form of ROWLOCK is ROWLOCKS