CultureSeptember 7, 2026

sponsons

SPON-sunz

Definition

Projections or platforms extending from the sides of a boat hull, often used for stability, buoyancy, or mounting equipment.

Etymology

Derived from the Dutch word 'spons,' meaning a bung or plug, likely entering English via maritime terminology to describe side-structures that add support or buoyancy to a vessel.

In the news

The author uses the term to describe the structural elements of her family's trimaran that fold out to provide stability and form the boat's shape.

‘Triffid II’ Explores the New World, Starting at Expo 67

Read the full article ↗

LOOSE CANNON | Peter Swanson

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