How Do You Spell OUTBOARDS?

Pronunciation: [a͡ʊtbˈɔːdz] (IPA)

Outboards is a common term used in the boating industry to refer to a type of motor that is mounted on the rear of a boat for propulsion. The spelling of this word is interesting because it contains a cluster of three consonants - T, B, and D - which can be challenging to pronounce for some non-native English speakers. The correct pronunciation of outboards is /ˈaʊtˌbɔːdz/, where the symbol ɔ represents the vowel sound in "thought" and the symbol ʒ represents the pronunciation of the letter "s" in "boats".

OUTBOARDS Meaning and Definition

1. Outboards refer to the engines specifically designed for the propulsion of small watercraft, such as boats and pontoons. They are typically placed on the outside, or the stern, of the vessel and are attached to the transom. Outboard motors consist of three main components: the powerhead, the midsection, and the lower unit.

   The powerhead is the top part of the outboard engine and houses the combustion chamber where fuel and air mix to generate power. It also contains the spark plugs and pistons that convert this power into mechanical energy. The midsection, as the name suggests, serves as the central part connecting the powerhead and lower unit. It houses various mechanical and electrical systems, including the driveshaft and throttle controls.

   The lower unit is located below the waterline and serves multiple functions, such as transferring power from the engine to the propeller, steering the boat, and providing reverse propulsion. It contains the gearbox, propeller, and water pump for cooling the engine.

   Outboards are known for their portability, versatility, and ease of installation. They are available in various sizes and horsepower ratings to accommodate different boat sizes and performance needs. Outboard engines are characterized by their quiet operation, fuel efficiency, and improved environmental performance over the years.

   Being detachable, outboards are convenient for removing and storing separately, reducing the risk of theft and decreasing maintenance costs. They are significantly used for recreational boating, fishing, and water sports due to their maneuverability and quick acceleration.

Common Misspellings for OUTBOARDS

• onboards
• ooutboard
• outwords
• outbounds
• outbord
• utboards
• outbords
• Outbowlde

Etymology of OUTBOARDS

The word "outboard" originated in the early 20th century and consists of two distinct parts: "out" and "board".

The term "board" refers to the side of a boat, especially the side that is above the water. It is derived from the Old English word "bord", meaning a plank or a flat piece of wood.

The word "out" in this context signifies outside or away from. It is derived from the Old English word "ut", which later became "outen" or "utan".

When combined, "out" and "board" formed the word "outboard" to define a boat engine that is attached externally to the back, or outside, of the boat instead of being situated within the hull. The word refers to the placement of the motor, emphasizing its position on the outside board or side of the boat.

Similar spelling word for OUTBOARDS

• outboard.