sponson

noun spon·son \ˈspän(t)-sən\

Definition of SPONSON

a : a projection (as a gun platform) from the side of a ship or a tank

b : an air chamber along a watercraft (as a canoe) to increase stability and buoyancy

: a light air-filled structure or a winglike part protruding from the hull of a seaplane to steady it on water

perhaps by shortening & alteration from expansion

First Known Use: 1835

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