skiff

noun

: any of various small boats
especially : a flat-bottomed rowboat

Examples of skiff in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On Friday, French skiff sailing partners Sarah Steyaert and Charline Picon were proposed to by their respective boyfriends after winning bronze in the women’s skiff 49erFX. Jenna West, The Athletic, 7 Aug. 2024 Whether focused on a sumptuous superyacht that sleeps 12, a simple flats fishing skiff, or a pleasant day focused on boat wishes and people watching, FLIBS is an enjoyable experience where boating dreams are born, nurtured, and fulfilled for a large number of the 100,000+ attendees. Kathleen Turner, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024 By Saturday evening, Savannah's Richmond Hill neighborhood was transformed into a network of canals navigable by skiff boat, or in a pinch, recreational paddle boards. Claire Thornton, USA TODAY, 12 Aug. 2024 The skiff and windsurfing competitions are scheduled from July 28 through August 1 and August 2, respectively, while the dinghy races will go from August 1 through August 7. Madeline Fitzgerald, Quartz, 28 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for skiff 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English skif, from Middle French or Old Italian; Middle French esquif, from Old Italian schifo, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English scip ship

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of skiff was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near skiff

Cite this Entry

“Skiff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skiff. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

skiff

noun
: any of various small boats
especially : a flat-bottomed rowboat

More from Merriam-Webster on skiff

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!