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Definition of ketch

ketch

/kɛtʃ/
ketch
Plural:ketches
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ketch Lexical Profile

ketch Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A two-masted, fore-and-aft-rigged sailing vessel characterized by a tall mainmast and a shorter mizzenmast stepped forward of the rudder post.

Example

"The family spent their summer cruising along the Mediterranean coast in a beautifully restored wooden ketch."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ketch

Word Nuance & Usage

Frequently confused with a yawl in nautical terminology; the critical distinction is that a ketch has its mizzenmast stepped forward of the rudder post, whereas a yawl's mizzenmast is positioned aft.

• Rhymes for ketch

• Nearby Words

kerrybush
kestrel
ketamine
ketch
ketchup
ketchupy
keto

Word Origin & Etymology

Mid 17th century: probably a variant of the noun 'catch' (referring to a type of strong, heavy boat), later assimilated in spelling to the Dutch word 'kits'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ketch. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 2, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ketch
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