A traditional sailing vessel used in the Indian Ocean, characterized by triangular lateen sails and a distinctive hull design. These boats have been used for centuries for fishing, pearl diving, and coastal trading throughout the Arabian Peninsula and East Africa.
From Arabic dāw, referring to this specific type of sailing vessel used throughout the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. The word entered English directly through maritime contact during the colonial period, first recorded in English texts in the 18th century. The Arabic term reflects the boat's central role in Arab maritime culture and trade networks.
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