Pronunciation: [kˈɒkst ˈe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The Australian pronunciation of "coxed eight" can seem tricky to understand since it pronounces the "x" as an "s" sound. The phonetic transcription for this word would be /kɒkst eɪt/. The "x" sound in "cox" is realized as "ks" which becomes "st" when followed by a consonant, as in "eight". Coxed eight is a type of rowing boat with a coxswain who sits in the stern and provides steering and motivation for the eight rowers.
A coxed eight is a type of rowing boat used in competitive rowing events, particularly in the sport of rowing. It consists of eight rowers sitting in individual seats, each equipped with two oars, and a coxswain positioned at the stern, responsible for steering and coordinating the team's efforts during the race.
The coxed eight is differentiated from other types of rowing boats primarily by the presence of a coxswain. The coxswain plays a crucial role in guiding the crew, giving commands, and providing motivation and tactical instructions to maximize their performance. They steer the boat using a rudder controlled by cables or wires connected to their feet, ensuring that the crew maintains the optimal course and avoids obstacles or collisions with other boats.
Typically, coxed eights are used in team events, where the eight rowers work in perfect synchronization to achieve the highest possible speed. The rowers face backward and use their oars to propel the boat forward, while the coxswain keeps a watchful eye on the race strategy, the crew's technique, and communicates with the rowers via spoken commands or hand signals.
Coxed eights are often seen in prestigious rowing competitions, such as the Olympic Games or university-level regattas, where they demonstrate the pinnacle of teamwork, strength, and coordination. These long, slender boats can reach impressive speeds, requiring a harmonious blend of power, endurance, technique, and superb guidance from the coxswain to achieve victory.
The term "coxed eight" has its origins in rowing, particularly in the sport of rowing known as "eights". The word "eight" refers to the number of rowers in a crew, and "cox" is short for "coxswain", who is the person responsible for steering the boat and coordinating the rowers.
The etymology of "coxswain" is believed to have originated from the Dutch word "kocswaen" or "cockswain". This term referred to the person in charge of a small boat or barge. Over time, it evolved into "coxswain" in English.
When referring to a rowing crew, the term "coxed eight" designates a rowing boat with eight rowers and a coxswain, who sits at the stern, facing the rowers, and provides guidance and coordination throughout the race.
