Yacht

/jɑːt/ noun

Definition

A yacht is a medium or large boat used mainly for pleasure, sport, or luxury trips, not for work. Some yachts have sails, and others use engines.

Etymology

“Yacht” comes from Dutch “jacht” or “jachtschip,” meaning “hunting ship” or “fast ship.” English borrowed it when such fast boats were used for chasing and for pleasure sailing.

Kelly Says

The spelling of “yacht” is a trap: all those letters, but it sounds like a simple “yot.” English kept the fancy Dutch look even after the pronunciation changed, which is why learners often stumble on it.

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