dhow

noun

ˈdau̇ 

: an Arab lateen-rigged boat usually having a long overhang forward, a high poop, and a low waist

Illustration of dhow

Examples of dhow in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His father was the captain of an old-fashioned wooden trading ship known as a dhow. — Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 15 June 2026

Arab and Swahili traders sailed these waters on dhows, stopping along the coast to exchange goods such as ivory, gold, and spices. — Ali Pantony, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Apr. 2026

There’s also a jetty at the river’s edge where a dhow-like dahabeah could be moored for daily or overnight trips with special permission. — Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 21 Dec. 2025

Drones and missiles can be launched from trucks and mines could be deployed from untold numbers of small fishing boats, dhows or even pleasure craft, experts said. — Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 4 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Arabic dāwa

First Known Use

1785, in the meaning defined above