Word
stow
Phoneticsstow
US/ˈstoʊ/
UK/stˈəʊ/
Definition
v. to pack or store something away neatly and safely in a small space. You often hear this on planes or boats when you need to put your bags away.
v. to pack or store an object in a specific, designated space for safekeeping or transport. Often used in maritime or aviation contexts; transitive and requires a direct object.
Examples
“Please stow your bags under the seat.”
“The crew worked quickly to stow the remaining gear before the storm reached the harbor.”
“Experienced travelers know to stow their most valuable items in a secure, internal compartment of their carry-on luggage to prevent accidental loss during transit.”
Examples
simple
“Please stow your bags under the seat.”
contextual
“The crew worked quickly to stow the remaining gear before the storm reached the harbor.”
complex
“Experienced travelers know to stow their most valuable items in a secure, internal compartment of their carry-on luggage to prevent accidental loss during transit.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. Frequently used with the particle 'away'.
Real-World Examples
“It means that, when dry, you can stow the power cable in there, making this an easy machine to store.” “In the end, I gave the guitar away to a friend rather than stowing it away alongside the violin.” Word family
VERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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