1
as in ships
a large craft for travel by water
a new ocean liner that claims to be the largest commercial vessel afloat
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in boats
a small buoyant structure for travel on water
any vessel that is buoyant and steerable can be entered in the annual race down the river
Synonyms & Similar Words
3
4
as in containers
something into which a liquid or smaller objects can be put for storage or transportation
any watertight vessel can be used for mixing the paints
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 vessels
The Hong Kong builder plans to be much more public about these striking new vessels.
—
Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 7 Nov. 2025
Industry acceptance of aluminum hulls and lightweight composite structures has helped too, reducing energy demand and making electrification feasible for larger vessels.
—IEEE Spectrum, 6 Nov. 2025
Hu also revealed that China is exploring other nuclear vessels, including a Suezmax oil tanker powered by a lead-bismuth cooled fast reactor and a floating nuclear power station.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 6 Nov. 2025
By contrast, interior staterooms on bigger ships frequently measure about 150 square feet, The Points Guy reported (though those vessels also have a wide range of cabins in various sizes).
—Nathan Diller, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
Critics challenge legality of US’ LatAm strikes The US struck four more vessels alleged to be carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific, part of a military campaign that analysts say is drastically expanding American presidential power.
—Ben Smith, semafor.com, 31 Oct. 2025
But with the Coast Guard’s detailed Rules of Navigation, which dictate maritime law, prosecuting that charge may be challenging, considering the types of vessels involved in the July 28 tragedy in Biscayne Bay.
—David Goodhue
october 31, Miami Herald, 31 Oct. 2025
The Alabama Port Authority and APM Terminals Mobile are funding the $131 million project, which will enable the terminal to handle three ultra-large container vessels simultaneously.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 31 Oct. 2025
Washington has publicly acknowledged strikes on at least 14 vessels in both the southern Caribbean and Pacific since early September.
—Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025
Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 7 Nov. 2025
Industry acceptance of aluminum hulls and lightweight composite structures has helped too, reducing energy demand and making electrification feasible for larger vessels.
—IEEE Spectrum, 6 Nov. 2025
Hu also revealed that China is exploring other nuclear vessels, including a Suezmax oil tanker powered by a lead-bismuth cooled fast reactor and a floating nuclear power station.
—Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 6 Nov. 2025
By contrast, interior staterooms on bigger ships frequently measure about 150 square feet, The Points Guy reported (though those vessels also have a wide range of cabins in various sizes).
—Nathan Diller, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
Critics challenge legality of US’ LatAm strikes The US struck four more vessels alleged to be carrying drugs in the eastern Pacific, part of a military campaign that analysts say is drastically expanding American presidential power.
—Ben Smith, semafor.com, 31 Oct. 2025
But with the Coast Guard’s detailed Rules of Navigation, which dictate maritime law, prosecuting that charge may be challenging, considering the types of vessels involved in the July 28 tragedy in Biscayne Bay.
—David Goodhue
october 31, Miami Herald, 31 Oct. 2025
The Alabama Port Authority and APM Terminals Mobile are funding the $131 million project, which will enable the terminal to handle three ultra-large container vessels simultaneously.
—Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 31 Oct. 2025
Washington has publicly acknowledged strikes on at least 14 vessels in both the southern Caribbean and Pacific since early September.
—Ellie Cook, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vessels
Noun
-
In terms of sheer number of ships, Beijing’s navy is now bigger than Washington’s and Chinese shipyards can churn out new builds at a far higher rate.—
Brad Lendon,
CNN Money,
7 Nov. 2025
-
While those ships often have pools and spas, passengers won’t find the roller coasters, water slides and mini-golf courses common on larger vessels.—
Nathan Diller,
USA Today,
6 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
During a test run as the Pioneer transitioned from running on its hull to lifting four feet above the water on its slender foils, several boats coming the other way began to point and wave at us.—
Michael Verdon,
Robb Report,
7 Nov. 2025
-
The West Palm Beach firm boasts of being the supplier for a company that provides teak used to build decks on Viking boats.—
Miami Herald,
Miami Herald,
7 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
During this uncertain time, these area restaurants are offering food, from bowls of soup to loaves of bread, to those affected by the SNAP benefits situation.—
Hannah Kirby,
jsonline.com,
6 Nov. 2025
-
Even at 7 quarts, both pieces fit inside my small dishwasher with enough room to fit around plates and bowls.—
Sian Babish,
PEOPLE,
6 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Glass is a common feature in most kitchens, from measuring cups to storage containers, but not all glassware is safe for microwave use.—
Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
9 Nov. 2025
-
In the fall, the potting soil in containers is usually depleted of nutrients and compacted.—
Megan Hughes,
Better Homes & Gardens,
8 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Viking is a premier boat manufacturer whose yachts are owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse.—
Miami Herald,
Miami Herald,
7 Nov. 2025
-
From luxury icebreakers to yachts with pool decks, these ships—and sailings—are on our list.—
Fran Golden,
AFAR Media,
6 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
Includes gardening tips to grow perfect perennials and chiles for every palate, plus articles on delicious Ukrainian food dishes and Christmas family traditions, banana recipe contest winners and practical life advice.—
Alex Perry,
Cincinnati Enquirer,
7 Nov. 2025
-
That breaks down as 30 by the back door landing on bags of beans and rice; 40 by the three-compartment sink and dry storage shelves, landing on spices and dirty dishes; 10 by a kitchen prep table; 10 under another prep table; 10 by the walk-in freezer and steam table; and two by the front counter.—
David J. Neal,
Miami Herald,
7 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Vessels.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vessels. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share