taffrail

noun

taff·​rail ˈtaf-ˌrāl How to pronounce taffrail (audio)
-rəl
1
: the upper part of the stern of a wooden ship
2
: a rail around the stern of a ship

Word History

Etymology

modification of Dutch tafereel, from Middle Dutch, panel, from Old French tablel — more at tableau

First Known Use

circa 1704, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of taffrail was circa 1704

Dictionary Entries Near taffrail

Cite this Entry

“Taffrail.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/taffrail. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

taffrail

noun
taff·​rail ˈtaf-ˌrāl How to pronounce taffrail (audio)
-rəl
: the rail around the stern of a ship

More from Merriam-Webster on taffrail

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!