1. a long narrow boat formerly used in whaling, designed to be fast and maneuverable
Usage: nautical; historical
2. a similar boat used as a ship’s lifeboat or for general maritime purposes
Usage: nautical

Examples

• The crew lowered the whaleboat into the choppy waters.
• Each whaleboat could hold six rowers and a harpooner.
• The ship carried several whaleboats as lifeboats.
• The whaleboat’s narrow design made it perfect for chasing whales.
• Sailors practiced rowing the whaleboat during drills.
• The museum displayed a restored 19th-century whaleboat.