Monday, 19 October 2026

Is 'dhow' English, or is it actually Arabic?

'Dhow' is a word borrowed from Arabic 'dawa'. The word entered the English language some time around 1785.


dhow [noun] [1785]
An Arab lateen-rigged boat usually having a long overhang forward, a high poop, and a low waist
Meaning: an Arab lateen-rigged boat usually having a long overhang forward; a high poop; and a low waist.

Etymology: Arabic dawa.

Topics: Maritime:Nautical.

Origin: From Arabic to English.
See 'dhow' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Arabic.
See more loan words from 1700s.


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