First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
rudder
noun rud·der \ˈrə-dər\
: a flat, movable piece usually of wood or metal that is attached to a ship, boat, airplane, etc., and is used in steering
Full Definition of RUDDER
1
: an underwater blade that is positioned at the stern of a boat or ship and controlled by its helm and that when turned causes the vessel's head to turn in the same direction
2
: a movable auxiliary airfoil on an airplane usually attached at the rear end that serves to control direction of flight in the horizontal plane — see airplane illustration
3
: a guiding force or strategy
— rud·der·less \-ləs\ adjective
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Origin of RUDDER
Middle English rother, from Old English rōther paddle; akin to Old English rōwan to row
RUDDER Defined for Kids
rudder
noun rud·der \ˈrə-dər\
Definition of RUDDER for Kids
: a movable flat piece attached at the rear of a ship or aircraft for steering
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