DUKW

[ duhk ]

noun

1. a type of amphibious military transport used during World War II.
2. a similar truck used in emergency evacuations.

Word History and Origins

Origin of DUKW¹

First recorded in 1940–45; from the manufacturer’s code: D, “designed in 1942”; U, “amphibious utility truck”; K, “all-wheel drive”; and W, “dual-tandem rear axles”

Example Sentences

While some tourism duck boats were converted from the Army’s World War II-era “DUKW” boats, those used by Ride the Ducks Branson were replicas, the company said, updated with modern safety equipment.

From Washington Post

Army deployed thousands of amphibious landing craft during World War II that were known then by their military designation, DUKW.

From US News

Army deployed thousands of amphibious landing craft during World War II that were known then by their military designation, DUKW.

From Washington Times

Mr Clinch said that in Liverpool not enough foam had been inserted into the DUKW, while in the Thames incident the foam was packed too tightly around machinery, leading to friction and overheating causing a fire.

From BBC

Ride the Ducks says its six-wheeled vehicle, capable of traveling on land and water, are based on the “classic World War II ‘DUKW’ amphibious design.”

From New York Times