outrigger

noun

out·​rig·​ger ˈau̇t-ˌri-gər 

1

a

: a projection with a float or a shaped log at the end attached to a boat to prevent capsizing

b

: a spar or projecting beam run out from a ship's side to help secure the masts or from a mast to extend a rope or sail

2

: a boat equipped with an outrigger

3

: a projecting member run out from a main structure to provide additional stability or to support something

especially : a projecting frame to support the elevator or tailplanes of an airplane or the rotor of a helicopter

Illustration of outrigger

• outrigger 2

Examples of outrigger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Todd DaSilva tells of outriggers across Oceana and delve into an ancient super city on the banks of the Mississippi River. —Joe Sills, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

Watch outriggers glide down the Ala Wai from your breezy rooftop lanai while sipping a cup of Kona coffee, then pop down to Redfish for a proper bowl of poke. —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 11 Oct. 2024

As the ceremony concludes, a single 45-foot outrigger canoe glides back to shore, its paddlers moving in tune with the ocean's currents. —Kaniela Ing, TIME, 9 Aug. 2024

Watch outriggers glide down the Ala Wai from your breezy rooftop lanai while sipping a cup of Kona coffee, then walk to Waikiki Beach to fetch a log and a lesson from the local beach boys. —Krista Simmons, Sunset Magazine, 1 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

outrigger

noun

out·​rig·​ger ˈau̇t-ˌrig-ər 

1

: a frame that extends from the side of a boat to prevent upsetting

2

: a boat equipped with an outrigger