banca

noun

ban·​ca

variants or less commonly bangka or banka

ˈbäŋkə

plural -s

: a small boat found in Pacific waters especially around the Philippines

usually : a dugout canoe often provided with outriggers and a roof of bamboo

Word History

Etymology

Philippine Spanish & Tagalog; Philippine Spanish banca, from Tagalog bangkâ

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now