paddle
10 synonyms for paddle, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used to propel and steer a small boat.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
A short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used to propel and steer a small boat.
“He gripped the paddle firmly as the canoe hit the rapids.”
How to use paddle
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
paddle a canoe
paddle in the shallows
Etymology
Partly from an old verb meaning "to splash or dabble," and partly from a Middle English word for a small spade-like tool.
Full origin of paddle →Frequently asked questions
What does “paddle” mean?
The word “paddle” means a short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used to propel and steer a small boat. In plain terms, the tool used to row a canoe or kayak, or the action of using one — also used for splashing about in shallow water.
How do you pronounce “paddle”?
“Paddle” is pronounced PADL ([ˈpʰæ.ɾɫ̩] in IPA).
How do you use “paddle” in a sentence?
Here is “paddle” used in a sentence: “He gripped the paddle firmly as the canoe hit the rapids.”
What part of speech is “paddle”?
Depending on how it is used, “paddle” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “paddle” come from?
The word “paddle” comes from Middle English. Partly from an old verb meaning "to splash or dabble," and partly from a Middle English word for a small spade-like tool.
Is “paddle” a common word?
“Paddle” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “paddle” have?
“Paddle” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used to propel and steer a small boat.
