taffrail

[ taf-reyl, -ruhl ]

noun

, Nautical.

1. the upper part of the stern of a ship.
2. a rail above the stern of a ship.

taffrail

/ ˈtæfˌreɪl /

noun

1. a rail at the stern or above the transom of a vessel
2. the upper part of the transom of a vessel, esp a sailing vessel, often ornately decorated

Word History and Origins

Origin of taffrail¹

1805–15; syncopated variant of taffarel; -ai- spelling Dutch -ee-

Word History and Origins

Origin of taffrail¹

C19: changed (through influence of rail ¹) from earlier tafferel, from Dutch taffereel panel (hence applied to the part of a vessel decorated with carved panels), variant of tafeleel (unattested), from tafel table

Example Sentences

Fresh-faced, slender, ebullient, radiating confidence, she was a dazzling figure in a swirling cotillion or at the taffrail of a steamer.

From New York Times

Almost before the cigarette was alight, a jarring shock made the Calder tremble from her shattered bows to her jagged taffrail.

From Project Gutenberg

As we watched her there were signs of a struggle taking place on board--pistol-shots rang out, and a heavy form plunged over her taffrail.

From Project Gutenberg

We leaned against the taffrail, as the ship heeled under a wind, white caps racing after.

From Project Gutenberg

The members of the crew crowded along the taffrails on the starboard side of the ship, where they shouted to one another and pointed excitedly in the direction of the submarine.

From Project Gutenberg