steerage

[ steer-ij ]

noun

1. a part or division of a ship, formerly the part containing the steering steer steering apparatus.
2. (in a passenger ship) the part or accommodations allotted to the passengers who travel at the cheapest rate.

steerage

/ ˈstɪərɪdʒ /

noun

1. the cheapest accommodation on a passenger ship, originally the compartments containing the steering apparatus
2. an instance or the practice of steering and the effect of this on a vessel or vehicle

Word History and Origins

Origin of steerage¹

First recorded in 1400–50, steerage is from the late Middle English word sterage. See steer ¹, -age

Example Sentences

We watched the ceremony and then were quietly escorted back through the steerage section before being deposited unceremoniously outside the briefing room.

From Salon

Her job doesn’t allow for remote work, and she said she didn’t want to subject her large dog to the steerage of an airplane.

From New York Times

“I’m sorry, but Viking Cruises does not offer a ‘steerage’ option.”

From Washington Post

Most comrades sprawl shoeless, many dozing open-mouthed in the permanent state of steerage that is Soviet air travel.

From New York Times

Frederick came first, quickly followed by Rosa and the children, who traveled in steerage.

From Literature

Related Words

• boating
• exploration
• shipping