paddle
UK: ˈpæd.l̩ | US: ˈpæd.l̩
n. a short pole with a broad flat blade, used to propel or steer a boat
vt. to propel or steer a boat using a paddle
vi. to row gently with a paddle
n. a tool with a flat surface used for mixing or stirring
n. a small bat used in table tennis
The word "paddle" originates from Middle English padell, derived from Old English padel (a small spade or shovel). The root pad relates to a flat surface, while -dle is a frequentative suffix indicating repeated action (e.g., "dabble," "waddle"). The term evolved to describe tools with flat blades, such as oars or mixing implements, emphasizing both shape and motion.
She used a wooden paddle to steer the canoe down the river.
The children laughed as they paddled in the shallow lake.
Stir the batter gently with a paddle until smooth.
He won the match with a powerful smash of his table tennis paddle.
The chef reached for a paddle to mix the dough in the large bowl.