What does paddle mean?
To paddle is to propel or steer a small boat through water, usually by dipping a broad-bladed implement into the water and pulling it backward. The word can also describe swimming or moving through shallow water with broad arm movements, often without implying speed or effort. As a noun, a paddle is the short implement used for this purpose, and the word may additionally refer to a small flat-bottomed boat or a swimming stroke. In everyday figurative use, 'paddle one's own canoe' means to manage one's own affairs or make progress independently. The term is familiar in both British and American English and is especially associated with canoeing, kayaking, and informal waterside activities.
To propel or steer a canoe, kayak, or other small boat by using a paddle; also, to move or swim through water with broad strokes.
"The two friends paddled the canoe toward the island."
The verb is commonly used with small boats. 'Paddle' can also mean to move through water casually, as in 'paddle around.'
A short, broad-bladed implement for propelling or steering a canoe, kayak, or similar boat. By extension, it can denote a small flat-bottomed boat or a swimming stroke.
"He rested the paddle across the gunwale of the canoe."
The implement sense is the most common. The meanings 'small flat-bottomed boat' and 'swimming stroke' are established but less frequent in modern use.
The standard plural is formed by adding -s. In the implement sense, 'paddles' commonly refers to the two separate blades used in a canoe or kayak.
"The paddles lay crossed on the seat of the canoe."
From propelling a canoe to the idiom of making one's way independently, 'paddle one's own canoe' celebrates resourceful self-reliance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does paddle come from?
The precise origin of the word is uncertain. It was already established in Middle English, where it referred both to a small boat and to the implement used to propel such a boat. The modern senses developed from these earlier nautical and swimming-related uses; no clearly established cognates can be listed with confidence.
Related word forms
How paddle is actually used
The word is standard in British and American English. In the expression 'paddle one's own canoe,' it means to make one's own way without relying on others; the phrase can be approving or mildly critical depending on context.
Easily confused with paddle
To paddle is to propel or steer a boat through water, whereas to peddle is to sell goods door to door or from a small stall.