bateau

noun

ba·​teau ba-ˈtō 

variants or less commonly batteau

plural bateaux ba-ˈtō(z)  also batteaux

: any of various small craft

especially : a flat-bottomed boat with raked bow and stern and flaring sides

Examples of bateau in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The modest gown featured a bateau neckline and three-quarter sleeves, with wildflowers hand-embroidered into the silk threads and organza of her veil, a nod the 53 countries of the Commonwealth. —Stephanie Sengwe, PEOPLE, 8 June 2026

The city’s evergreen highlights weren't overlooked either: we were guided through the Palace of Versailles, hopped on a classic Parisian bateau mouche (river boat) from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, and marveled at the Opéra Garnier. —Chrissie McClatchie, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2026

Dress up the elegant summer staple with kitten heels and a bateau tee. —Christina Holevas, Vogue, 29 Apr. 2026

Dress the Population Livia Fit and Flare Dress The crepe-like material, bateau neck, princess-seamed upper with cap sleeves, and flared skirt make this Dress the Population pick a classic that won’t go out of style. —Cathy Nelson, InStyle, 16 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Canadian French, from French, from Old French batel, from Old English bāt boat — more at boat

First Known Use

1711, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bateau

• afterglow
• akimbo
• albino
• aliquot
• allegro
• amigo
• apropos
• audio
• bungalow
• calico
• calypso
• cameo