tiller
What does "tiller" mean?
A tiller is a horizontal handle or lever attached to the rudder post of a boat, used for steering. Imagine a long wooden or metal arm extending forward from the stern; by pushing or pulling this handle, the sailor physically rotates the rudder to change the vessel's direction. In modern usage, the term is primarily associated with small sailboats, dinghies, or canal boats. While larger ships typically use a wheel, the tiller remains the standard for smaller craft because it provides direct, tactile feedback from the water against the rudder, allowing for precise control and quick adjustments.
"tiller" in conversation
Sailing lesson
Keep your hand steady on the tiller.
Keep your hand steady on the tiller.
It feels much heavier than I expected!
It feels much heavier than I expected!
Used here to describe the direct physical act of steering.
Canal boat trip
Move the tiller to the left to avoid the bank.
Move the tiller to the left to avoid the bank.
Got it, we are turning away now.
Got it, we are turning away now.
Highlights the directional relationship between the tiller and the boat's path.
"tiller" in a sentence
He gripped the tiller firmly as the boat caught the wind.
He gripped the tiller firmly as the boat caught the wind.
The sailor adjusted the tiller to compensate for the strong cross-current.
The sailor adjusted the tiller to compensate for the strong cross-current.
Operating a tiller requires a keen sense of balance and an understanding of fluid dynamics.
Operating a tiller requires a keen sense of balance and an understanding of fluid dynamics.
