Noun
Definition: a small, light boat with a shallow draft and a flat bottom, typically rowed or sailed by one person or a small crew.
Synonyms: Dinghy, Punt, Rowboat
Antonyms: Large boat, Yacht
Examples:
- He took his skiff out for a peaceful evening of fishing.
- The children played in their little skiff in the small pond.
Mnemonics:
- Think of the word "skiff" rhyming with "iffy," which represents the small and uncertain nature of this boat.
Etymology:
Origin:
The word "skiff" originated from the Middle English word "schive," which further derived from the Old French word "eschive" meaning "a light boat."
Historical Usage:Skiffs have been used for centuries as small boats for fishing, transportation, and leisure activities. They are commonly found in coastal regions and rivers.