watercraft

noun

wa·​ter·​craft ˈwȯ-tər-ˌkraft How to pronounce watercraft (audio)
ˈwä-
Synonyms of watercraftnext
1
: skill in aquatic activities (such as managing boats)
2
a
: ship, boat
b
: craft for water transport

Synonyms of watercraft

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Examples of watercraft in a Sentence

just about any kind of watercraft can be seen on the lake during the summer
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Conley was charged with one count of operating a boat or watercraft while intoxicated or under the influence. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026 Three watercraft, including two from the fire department, responded to the area and pulled the five people out of the water, according to fire officials. — Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 15 June 2026 Much like the jet drives used on personal watercraft, its 90 hp waterjet propulsion produces instant acceleration, impressive speeds, and nimble handling. — Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 16 June 2026 State wildlife officials continue to urge boaters and anyone using California waterways to thoroughly clean, drain and dry their watercraft and equipment before moving between bodies of water in an effort to slow the spread of the invasive species. — Richard Ramos, CBS News, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for watercraft

Word History

First Known Use

1566, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of watercraft was in 1566

Rhymes for watercraft

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Browse Nearby Words

water cracker
watercraft
water crake
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Cite this Entry

“Watercraft.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/watercraft. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

watercraft

noun
wa·​ter·​craft -ˌkraft How to pronounce watercraft (audio)
: craft for water transportation

More from Merriam-Webster on watercraft

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about watercraft

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