The word "stowaway" is spelled with nine letters and three syllables. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈstoʊəˌweɪ/. The first syllable "sto" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, followed by a schwa sound in the second syllable "a". The final syllable "way" is pronounced with a long "a" sound. The word refers to a person who hides aboard a ship or plane without permission, and is a noun that dates back to the 19th century.
A stowaway refers to an individual who clandestinely boards a ship, airplane, train, or other means of transportation without the knowledge or permission of the crew, personnel, or authorities in charge. The word originates from the nautical context, where sailors were at times surprised to discover unauthorized individuals hidden among the cargo or within the vessel's compartments.
A stowaway typically aims to avoid paying the transportation fee or to clandestinely reach a desired destination. Their presence is often discovered after departure when crew members conduct routine inspections or hear suspicious noises. The stowaway's actions are considered illegal and breach security protocols, as they jeopardize the safety and order within the transportation system.
Stowaways can create various issues both for themselves and the transportation crew. They may lack provisions, causing difficulties to sustain themselves during the journey. Additionally, stowaways might suffer from extreme temperatures, limited oxygen supply, or endure dangerous conditions without appropriate protective measures. In some cases, stowaways may accidentally cause property damage or accidents, putting both themselves and others onboard at risk.
Due to their unauthorized presence, stowaways are typically apprehended upon discovery and may face legal consequences, including deportation or legal charges for their actions. Authorities and transportation companies usually implement strict security measures to prevent stowaways from boarding, such as surveillance systems, cargo inspections, or identity verification protocols, aiming to ensure the safety and orderly functioning of transportation services.
The term "stowaway" has its origins in the Middle English language. It is derived from two separate words: "stow" and "away".
The word "stow" originated from the Old English word "stōwian", which means "to place, to arrange". It later evolved into the Middle English word "stowen", retaining a similar meaning. "Stow" suggests the act of putting or storing something in a particular place.
The word "away" dates back to the Old English word "onweg", which means "on the way, distant from here". Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word "aweie" or "awaye", with the same connotation of being at a distance or in a different location.
Combining these two words, "stow" and "away", led to the development of the term "stowaway".