Definition of dunnage
1 : loose materials used to support and protect cargo in a ship's hold; also : padding in a shipping container
2 : baggage
From the M-W Editors
dunnage was our Word of the Day on 08/17/2016. Hear the podcast!
Theme music by Joshua Stamper ©2006 New Jerusalem Music/ASCAP
Did You Know?
Etymologists don't know the exact origin of dunnage. Some have pointed out the similarity of the word to dünne twige, a Low German term meaning "brushwood," but no one has ever proven the two are related. Others have speculated that it derives from Dunlop, the name of a famous cheese-making town in Scotland; however, neither the town nor the cheese has any connection to dunnage. Truth be told, though dunnage has been with us since the 15th century, its etymological history remains a mystery.
Origin and Etymology of dunnage
origin unknown
First Known Use: 15th century
Learn More about dunnage
-
See words that rhyme with dunnage Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about dunnage
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up dunnage? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!