bow
n. countable C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈbaʊ// bow
n. the front part of a ship or boat. You use this word when you want to talk about the direction the vessel is moving in.
n. the forward part of the hull of a ship or boat. Often used in the singular to indicate direction or location on a vessel.
The waves splash against the bow of the boat.
The lookout stood at the bow of the ship to watch for icebergs in the distance.
As the vessel crested the swell, the bow dipped sharply into the trough, sending a spray of saltwater across the forward deck and soaking the crew.
Usage
Often used in the singular with the definite article ('the bow').
Pitfall
He stood on the bowHe stood at the bowWhile 'on' is used for the deck, 'at' or 'in' are the standard prepositions for this specific location on a ship.