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Definition of paddlewheel

paddlewheel

/ˈpæd.əlˌwiːl/
pad · dle · wheel
Plural:paddlewheels
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paddlewheel Lexical Profile

paddlewheel Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large revolving wheel fitted with broad blades or paddles around its rim, driven by an engine to propel a boat or ship through water.

Example

"The historic riverboat was propelled down the Mississippi River by a massive wooden paddlewheel."

2

A wheel fitted with paddles that is turned by the force of flowing water to generate mechanical power.

Example

"The old grist mill still relies on a heavy iron paddlewheel turned by the local stream to grind grain."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for paddlewheel

• Nearby Words

paddlefish
paddler
paddlesteamer
paddlewheel
paddlewheeler
paddling
paddock

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed as a compound of 'paddle' and 'wheel' in the early 19th century, specifically referring to the large propulsion wheels developed for early steamships.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Paddlewheel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/paddlewheel
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