Pronunciation: [wˈɛɹi] (IPA) 
The word "wherry" is a noun that refers to a type of small boat used for transportation or fishing. Its phonetic transcription is /ˈhwɛri/, which means that the initial "wh" sound is pronounced as a voiceless labiovelar fricative, like the "wh" in "white" or "whereas." The vowel sound is a short "e" sound followed by an "r" sound that is pronounced with a slight trill. The final "y" sound is pronounced as an unstressed "i" sound.
A wherry is a type of small, flat-bottomed boat that is specifically designed and used for transportation purposes on rivers and coastal waters. It is typically propelled by rowing, using oars or paddles, and occasionally by the utilization of a small sail. Wherries have been widely used throughout history for various purposes, such as fishing, passenger transportation, and even wartime operations.
A defining characteristic of a wherry is its long and narrow shape, which enables easy maneuverability and efficient transportation. These boats usually feature a shallow draft, allowing them to navigate shallow and narrow waterways. Wherries can vary in size, but they generally range from around 20 to 40 feet in length.
The term "wherry" is often associated with the coastal regions of England, particularly Norfolk and Suffolk, where these boats were extensively used for transportation along the rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas. Wherries were commonly employed for carrying goods, such as coal, grain, or other merchandise, as well as for passenger transport.
In modern times, wherries are primarily utilized for leisure activities, including recreational rowing or sailing. Their historical significance and distinctive design have made them popular craft for enthusiasts and collectors. Wherries are often admired for their elegance, practicality, and connection to traditional maritime heritage.
A light boat, sharp at each end for speed; a ferry-boat; a small decked fishing-vessel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "wherry" has its origins in Middle English. It is derived from the Old English word "hwǣre", which meant "a boat", and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "hwerjon". This Proto-Germanic root refers to a vessel used for transporting goods or people. Over time, the word "wherry" specifically came to designate a light rowing boat used for transportation, particularly in coastal regions or rivers.
