How Do You Spell TAFFEREL?

Pronunciation: [tˈafəɹə͡l] (IPA)

The word Tafferel refers to the ornamental stern-piece of a ship or boat. It's often misspelled as "taffrail." The correct pronunciation of "tafferel" is "ta-fuh-ruhl." The first syllable is pronounced as "ta" with a short "a" sound, followed by "fuh" with a short, lax vowel "uh" sound. The last syllable is pronounced as "ruhl" with a consonantal "r" sound and a short "u" vowel sound. Keeping the correct spelling and pronunciation in mind is essential for effective communication, especially when discussing marine vessels.

TAFFEREL Meaning and Definition

1. Tafferel is a noun that refers to a decorative panel or screen, typically made of wood, metal, or stone, found on the stern (rear) of a ship. It is usually situated above the transom or other raised structure and serves an ornamental purpose. The term "tafferel" originates from the French word "taffareau" which means "upper work" or "ornamental work."

   In maritime architecture and shipbuilding, tafferels are often intricately carved or adorned with sculptural elements, or may feature finely crafted designs such as figures, coats of arms, or other decorative motifs. These elaborate panels were common on sailing vessels and were surrounded by other decorative elements, such as galleries and ornamented railings.

   Tafferels not only added beauty and elegance to ships, but they also served as visual markers to distinguish one ship from another, particularly in naval fleets. They were often used to display the ship's name, crest, or other identifying symbols. Their location at the stern made them highly visible to onlookers, whether from the shore, other ships, or port.

   While the primary function of tafferels was ornamental, they also provided a protective barrier, shielding the crew and cargo from sea spray, wind, and weather conditions. Today, tafferels can still be seen on some historic ships or replicas, serving as a reminder of the craftsmanship and aesthetics of maritime history.

2. In a ship, the uppermost part of the stern, which is flat on the top, like a table.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for TAFFEREL

• rafferel
• fafferel
• gafferel
• yafferel
• 6afferel
• 5afferel
• tzfferel
• tsfferel
• twfferel
• tqfferel
• tadferel
• tacferel
• tavferel
• tagferel
• tatferel
• tarferel
• tafderel
• tafcerel
• tafverel
• tafgerel

Etymology of TAFFEREL

The word "tafferel" (also spelled "taffrail") is derived from the Dutch term "tafeltje", which means "little table". The Dutch word later transformed into the cognate "tafereel", which referred to a small ornamental table at the stern of a ship. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of "tafereel" changed to "tafferel" or "taffrail". The term is specifically used in nautical terminology to describe the upper rail or railing at the back of the ship or boat.