# paddle

/ˈpædəɫ/ (US) · /pˈædəl/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paddle
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a short pole with a wide, flat end that you use to move a small boat through the water. You hold it with both hands and pull it through the water to go forward.

For teachers: a short pole with a broad blade at one or both ends, used without a rowlock to propel a small craft such as a canoe.

## Examples

- We used a wooden paddle to move the canoe across the lake.
- After losing his paddle in the rapids, he had to use his hands to steer the kayak toward the shore.
- The rhythmic splash of the paddle against the glass-like surface of the water was the only sound heard during their early morning excursion across the bay.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verb 'to use' or 'to lose'; distinct from an 'oar' which is usually attached to the boat.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.