gunwale Definition
- 1the upper edge of the side of a boat or ship
- 2a horizontal reinforcing member along the top of a wooden fence
Using gunwale: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gunwale" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The boat was so low in the water that the gunwales were almost submerged.
Example
He leaned over the gunwale to get a better view of the dolphins.
Example
The carpenter nailed the gunwale onto the fence.
gunwale Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for gunwale
- gunnel
- top rail
- fence rail
Phrases with gunwale
Example
The joke was so funny that we were all over the gunwale with laughter.
below the level of the gunwale, especially in reference to the waterline of a boat
Example
The fish was so big that it barely fit under the gunwale of the boat.
Example
The two boats raced gunwale to gunwale across the lake.
Origins of gunwale
from Middle Dutch 'gheinwele', meaning 'gunwale'
Summary: gunwale in Brief
'Gunwale' [guhn-l] refers to the upper edge of the side of a boat or ship, or a horizontal reinforcing member along the top of a wooden fence. It is often used in phrases like 'over the gunwale,' meaning out of control with laughter, and 'under the gunwale,' referring to something below the level of the gunwale. 'Gunwale to gunwale' means side by side, especially in reference to boats or ships.
