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

Several California State Parks Ocean Lifeguards earned the Heroic Act Award for treating an Fijian outrigger paddler having a cardiac arrest during a trek from Catalina to Newport Beach. —Laylan Connelly, Oc Register, 11 Oct. 2025

The robot moves on two ABS differential drive wheels, using two fold-out wheeled outriggers to keep its balance. —New Atlas, 24 Sep. 2025

Plunge into the pristine waters for snorkeling, kayaking, outrigger canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding. —Jennifer Kester, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2025

And Ami just loses her footing and falls off the outrigger. —EW.com, 13 Aug. 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