catamaran

noun

cat·​a·​ma·​ran ˌka-tə-mə-ˈran How to pronounce catamaran (audio)
ˈka-tə-mə-ˌran
Synonyms of catamarannext
: a vessel (such as a sailboat) with twin hulls and usually a deck or superstructure connecting the hulls

Illustration of catamaran

Illustration of catamaran

Examples of catamaran 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.
Then our catamaran pulled away, the shoreline opened up into volcanic rock, pale limestone cliffs, and small churches perched high above the water. — Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 1 Nov. 2026 The British yard, which entered the sailing catamaran segment in September with the debut of the Oyster C60 at the Cannes Yachting Festival, just unveiled its first bluewater power catamaran at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2026 The catamaran design is intended to provide stability and seakeeping capabilities during extended operations offshore. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 25 Oct. 2026 For something romantic, the weekly Sweetheart Sunset Sail is an intimate catamaran trip exclusively for Bucuti guests, complete with a Champagne toast and open bar. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for catamaran

Word History

Etymology

Tamil kaṭṭumaram, from kaṭṭu to tie + maram tree, wood

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of catamaran was in 1673

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Catamaran.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catamaran. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

catamaran

noun
cat·​a·​ma·​ran ˌkat-ə-mə-ˈran How to pronounce catamaran (audio)
ˈkat-ə-mə-ˌran
: a boat with twin hulls

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