skiff

noun

: any of various small boats
especially : a flat-bottomed rowboat

Examples of skiff in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hop in a kayak or on a skiff ride for more intimate portraits of the state’s incredible wildlife. Uncruise Adventures, AFAR Media, 25 Mar. 2025 Erik Heil Germany, one of the newer teams, is led by driver Erik Heil, a two-time bronze medalist in the 49er skiff class. Andrew Rice, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025 Another could see guests hiking to a glacial lake or going for a skiff tour among icebergs. Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 18 Feb. 2025 Founder Christopher Columbus Smith built his first wooden boat, a skiff, in 1874, as a 13-year-old growing up on the St. Clair River in Algonac, Michigan. Jaclyn Trop, Robb Report, 24 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for skiff

Word History

Etymology

Middle English skif, from Middle French or Old Italian; Middle French esquif, from Old Italian schifo, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English scip ship

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of skiff was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Skiff.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/skiff. Accessed 6 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

skiff

noun
: any of various small boats
especially : a flat-bottomed rowboat

More from Merriam-Webster on skiff

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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