oar 1 of 2

Definition of oarnext

oar

2 of 2

verb

as in to paddle
to move a boat by means of oars since the wind had completely died, they had to oar the sailboat back to shore

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of oar
Noun
This Kentucky stew traditionally included game and livestock and was cooked in large kettles that required an oar for stirring. Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2026 His left oar became wedged in the tangle of wood. Emilee Coblentz, Outside, 11 Feb. 2026
Verb
For centuries, Vikings navigated these waters by sail and oar; today, ferries and charter boats offer comfortable, scenic access to the islands. Caroline Van Hemert, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2025 Mute swans do put on bursts of speed by oaring with their huge webbed feet. National Geographic, 19 Oct. 2016 See All Example Sentences for oar
Recent Examples of Synonyms for oar
Noun
  • Just inside, the 1,500-square-foot fitness studio makes the most of the same vantage point, with floor-to-ceiling windows, Peloton bikes, rowers, and space for yoga.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Back-rower Abi Burton had to lock for the first time, 19-year-old back-rower Demelza Short debuted, and Emma Sing got a shot at fullback, bumping Ellie Kildunne to the wing.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Authorities were told that the ducks had fallen and were paddling beneath the grate of a storm drain.
    Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 26 Apr. 2026
  • John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park already attracts hundreds of thousands of people every year who lounge on its beaches, snorkel and dive offshore and paddle through its mangroves.
    David Goodhue April 22, Miami Herald, 22 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • How does someone make the decision to spend three months rowing thousands of miles?
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Apr. 2026
  • An aisle seat 33 in block 146, row 32 of the lower deck listed as easy access standard was listed at $207,000, while a category two seat in the last row of the uppermost third deck was listed at $138,000 for block 310, row 26, seat 23.
    ABC News, ABC News, 23 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Plan to kayak the aqua waters with Ecology Outfitters or rent a pontoon from Elkhart Watersports.
    Katy Spratte Joyce, Midwest Living, 31 Mar. 2026
  • To take your trip beyond the town limits, kayak the river with a rental from Hudson Paddles or head to the Empire State Trail, which has an entry point just blocks from downtown.
    Sarah Cahalan, Travel + Leisure, 7 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Try canoeing the Colorado River, ATV riding on the Imperial Sand Dunes, or sample fresh produce because Yuma delights with plentiful agritourism, too.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Outside, 4 Jan. 2026
  • My childhood was spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains, camping in the Peaks of Otter, and canoeing down the James River.
    Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 25 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Oar.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/oar. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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