porthole

noun

port·​hole ˈpȯrt-ˌhōl How to pronounce porthole (audio)
1
: an opening (such as a window) with a cover or closure especially in the side of a ship or aircraft
2
: a port through which to shoot
3

Examples of porthole in a Sentence

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.
The submarine was equipped with large portholes to let passengers see underwater. George Petras, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2025 References range from the charming portholes and heavy-duty mahogany used in 1930s vessels to the low profile of ’80s-era superyachts. Julie Belcove, Robb Report, 8 Mar. 2025 And how well will civilians bear the stress, with high-def screens substituting for portholes to ward off claustrophobia and with g-forces reminiscent of roller coasters? IEEE Spectrum, 18 Dec. 2015 The sister ships were purpose-built to sail the North American coast and feature 50 rooms each, all with windows or portholes, private bathrooms, climate controls, and a TV, plus Wi-Fi connection. Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 18 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for porthole

Word History

Etymology

port entry 2

First Known Use

1569, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of porthole was in 1569

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Cite this Entry

“Porthole.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/porthole. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

porthole

noun
port·​hole ˈpōrt-ˌhōl How to pronounce porthole (audio)
ˈpȯrt-
1
: an opening in the side of a ship or aircraft
2
: an opening to shoot through

More from Merriam-Webster on porthole

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