Gunwale
(noun)
- The upper edge of the side of a boat or ship, above the level of the deck.
- The upper edge of the side of a canoe, kayak or other small boat, above the level of the deck.
Origin:
From the middle english word "gunnel", which is derived from the old norse word "gunnr" meaning "stranger" or "warrior" and "vál" meaning "wall".
Examples:
- He held onto the gunwale to steady himself as the boat bounced on the waves.
- The water was splashing over the gunwale of the boat.
- He stood on the gunwale and cast his fishing line.
- The gunwale was reinforced to prevent the boat from capsizing.
- The gunwale of the canoe was lined with a waterproof material.