paddle
PADL
Paddle (noun) means a short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used to propel and steer a small boat. Example: “He gripped the paddle firmly as the canoe hit the rapids.”
noun
1
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."
verb
1
To move a small boat through water using a paddle.
"They paddled across the lake at sunset."
2
To wade or splash about playfully in shallow water.
"The kids paddled in the rock pools all afternoon."
How to use paddle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe tool used to row a canoe or kayak, or the action of using one — also used for splashing about in shallow water.
Common pairings
paddle a canoe
paddle in the shallows
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like paddle.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- paddles
- Past tense
- paddled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He gripped the _____ firmly as the canoe hit the rapids.
Etymology
Partly from an old verb meaning "to splash or dabble," and partly from a Middle English word for a small spade-like tool.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for paddle
See all rhymes for 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.
