Chinese 'sampan' in the English language

'Sampan' is a word borrowed from Chinese 'sampan'. The word entered the English language some time around 1620.

sampan [noun] [1620]

A flat-bottomed skiff used in eastern Asia and usually propelled by two short oars

See 'sampan' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Chinese.

Etymology: Chinese (Guangdong) 'sàambáan' from 'sàam' three + 'báan' board, plank

See more loan words from 1600s.