outrigger

noun

out·​rig·​ger ˈau̇t-ˌri-gər 

1

a

: a projection with a float or a shaped log at the end attached to a boat to prevent capsizing

b

: a spar or projecting beam run out from a ship's side to help secure the masts or from a mast to extend a rope or sail

2

: a boat equipped with an outrigger

3

: a projecting member run out from a main structure to provide additional stability or to support something

especially : a projecting frame to support the elevator or tailplanes of an airplane or the rotor of a helicopter

Illustration of outrigger

• outrigger 2

Examples of outrigger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Using tools only of stone, bone, and shell, Islanders made wooden spears and clubs, and canoes built from planks stitched together with plant fibers and fitted with outriggers. —Literary Hub, 28 Jan. 2026

The resort also has a gorgeous, airy gym with those same views of the volcano, tennis and pickle-ball courts, and solid ocean programming that includes sunrise paddles in the resort’s outrigger canoe, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and diving. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026

Its hull design is a trimaran — a slender central hull with outriggers — which is uncommon for traditional submarines or surface warships. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 4 Dec. 2025

Book a Hawaiian outrigger canoe trip at sunrise to watch dolphins. —Carla Vianna, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for outrigger

• obligor
• bigger
• digger
• jigger
• rigger
• rigor
• trigger
• vigor
• gravedigger

Kids Definition

outrigger

noun

out·​rig·​ger ˈau̇t-ˌrig-ər 

1

: a frame that extends from the side of a boat to prevent upsetting

2

: a boat equipped with an outrigger