paddleboat

noun

pad·​dle·​boat ˈpa-dᵊl-ˌbōt 

1

: a boat propelled by one or more large paddle wheels typically powered by a steam engine

… a new sidewheel paddleboat of the sort that once carried New Yorkers on harbor and Hudson River trips

—Richard F. Shepard

2

US : a small recreational boat powered by pedals that turn a paddle wheel

Paddleboats are curious vessels. They can be steered and they're powered by foot pedals so the effect is something like riding a bicycle on water.

—Daniel Chang

called also pedal boat, (British) pedalo

Examples of paddleboat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pascagoula River Audubon Center Get out on the water with a kayak or paddleboat rental to look for bird species like magnolia warblers and brown pelicans at this center. —Cinelle Barnes, Travel + Leisure, 15 Jan. 2025

One of Snorkel Park’s best aspects is that the beach has ample amenities to rent, including snorkel equipment, paddleboats, kayaks, sun umbrellas, lounge chairs, and cabanas. —Sandy Allen, AFAR Media, 10 Jan. 2025

The current mural is composed of five historical scenes, beginning in the upper left- hand corner with the depiction of the paddleboat Wanderer that hauled cargo on the New River in the late 1800s. —Lisa J. Huriash, Sun Sentinel, 6 Jan. 2025

Anyone interested in fishing will need a valid license, while kayaks and paddleboats are available for rent. —Alexandra Hardle, The Arizona Republic, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for paddleboat

• anecdote
• antidote
• asymptote
• creosote
• dimethoate
• epidote
• ferryboat
• motorboat
• overcoat
• petticoat
• riverboat
• undercoat