A traditional sailing vessel with two or three masts used for trade and transportation in the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.
From Arabic dhow, entering English through maritime contact with Arab and Indian Ocean traders. The word refers to the distinctive lateen-rigged sailing ships used for centuries in that region.
The dhaw (or dhow) might be the most important word in maritime history that most people don't know—these ships enabled the entire Indian Ocean trade network that connected Africa, Arabia, and Asia for over 2,000 years.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.