Duckboat

/ˈdʌkˌboʊt/ noun

Definition

An amphibious vehicle designed to travel on both land and water, often used for tours or entertainment purposes.

Etymology

Compound of 'duck' (the bird, from the vehicle's ability to move like one between water and land) and 'boat.' Trademarked as 'DUKW' in WWII, the name 'duckboat' became the common term for these versatile vehicles.

Kelly Says

These vehicles were originally military transport during WWII and could cross rivers under their own power—now they're famous tourist attractions in cities like Boston and Chicago where people ride them splashing into harbors.

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