Definition

A small, powerful vessel designed to tow or push larger ships, barges, and other vessels, particularly in harbors, rivers, and narrow waterways. Tugboats are essential for maneuvering large commercial ships that cannot move easily on their own.

Example Usage

A tugboat guided the massive container ship into port with practiced precision.

Origin

From 'tug' (to pull forcefully) plus 'boat,' first used in this nautical context in the 19th century.

Fun Fact

Despite their small size, tugboats can generate enormous pulling power relative to their tonnage, with some capable of towing ships many times their own weight.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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