Lifeboat
/ˈlaɪfˌboʊt/noun
A specially designed boat for rescuing people from drowning.
Did you know?The concept of lifeboats dates back to ancient Greece, where they were used in maritime rescues, symbolizing salvation against the chaos of the sea.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
lif
“life, living, vitality”
Old English
OE
bōt
“a boat or vessel, often used for refuge or transport”
14th Century
Middle English
lifboote
“a boat designed for saving lives at sea”
Modern English
English
lifeboat
“a boat specifically made for rescue operations on water”
Explore more surprising origins