Surfboard

/ˈsɜrfbɔrd/ noun

Definition

A long, flat board designed to be ridden on ocean waves while surfing; comes in many shapes and sizes depending on wave conditions.

Etymology

From 'surf' (waves breaking on shore, from unknown origin, possibly from 'sough' meaning rushing sound) + 'board.' Modern surfboards became standardized in the 20th century, revolutionizing the ancient Hawaiian sport.

Kelly Says

Ancient Hawaiian surfboards were huge and heavy (made from wood), while modern ones are thin fiberglass—the evolution parallels how technology shapes sports, and surfing went from elite Hawaiian tradition to billion-dollar global industry.

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