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Definition of steamboat

steamboat

/ˈstiːmˌboʊt/
steam · boat

Plural:steamboats
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steamboat Lexical Profile

steamboat Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A boat or vessel propelled by a steam engine, especially a paddle-wheel craft historically used for navigating rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.

Example

"During the nineteenth century, the steamboat revolutionized passenger travel and trade along the Mississippi River."


2

A communal meal prevalent in East and Southeast Asia in which diners cook thinly sliced meats, vegetables, and noodles in a shared pot of simmering, seasoned broth at the table.

Example

"For the Lunar New Year reunion dinner, the entire family gathered around the table to enjoy a hearty steamboat."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for steamboat

Word Nuance & Usage

While primarily referring to a historical steam-powered vessel in Western contexts, in parts of East and Southeast Asia, 'steamboat' is a widespread culinary term synonymous with 'hot pot'.

• Rhymes for steamboat

Word Origin & Etymology

A compound of 'steam' and 'boat', first recorded in the late 18th century as steam engines were adapted for maritime navigation.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Steamboat. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 17, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/steamboat
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