The phrase "stow away" is spelled as it is pronounced with two syllables, each with a distinct vowel sound. The first syllable "stow" is pronounced with an open-o vowel sound /stoʊ/, similar to the word "go." The second syllable "away" is pronounced with an open-e vowel sound /əˈweɪ/, similar to the word "hey." This phrase means to conceal oneself aboard a ship, aircraft, or other mode of transportation without the knowledge or permission of the crew or passengers.
The phrase "stow away" is a verb that primarily refers to the act of hiding oneself or an object in a concealed or secret location on a vehicle or in a container, usually in order to travel or gain entry without being detected or authorized. It commonly denotes an illegal or unauthorized act and is often associated with clandestine or covert behavior.
When used in the context of transportation, such as aboard ships, planes, or trains, "stow away" typically implies an individual secretly boarding a vehicle to avoid paying the fare, escape a particular situation, or seek an unlawful entry into a foreign country. This act may involve hiding in cargo compartments, storage areas, or even small hidden compartments within vehicles specifically designed for such purposes.
In a general sense, "stow away" can extend beyond human presence and apply to objects or belongings being concealed within luggage, backpacks, or compartments, often for the purpose of sneaking them past customs or security checks. This term signifies the act of hiding possessions, contraband, or even animals to bypass inspections, transportation fees, or other restrictions.
While "stow away" commonly implies an unauthorized or illegal act, it can also be used metaphorically to mean concealing or tucking away something discreetly or safely. For instance, one might say they "stow away" their valuable documents in a secure safe or "stow away" their emotions to maintain composure in a challenging situation.
The word "stow away" originated in the 17th century, combining the verb "stow" and the adverb "away".
The term "stow" can be traced back to the Old English word "stōwian", meaning "to place" or "to arrange". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "stōjaną", which had a similar meaning. The word "stow" was commonly used in various contexts related to arranging or storing items aboard ships.
The addition of the adverb "away" intensifies the meaning of the phrase, suggesting the act of hiding or concealing oneself in a specific location. Thus, "stow away" came to refer specifically to concealing or hiding oneself on a ship in order to travel without permission or paying fare.