yacht

UK: jɒt | US: jɑːt

Definition
  1. n. a medium-sized sailboat or motorboat used for racing or leisure cruising.

Structure
yacht <Dutch "jacht", meaning "hunt" or "fast ship">
Etymology

The word "yacht" originates from the Dutch word jacht (short for jaghtschip), meaning "hunt" or "fast ship." In the 16th–17th centuries, Dutch naval vessels called jachten were lightweight and speedy, designed for chasing pirates or transporting dignitaries. The term entered English after King Charles II of England acquired a Dutch jacht as a pleasure craft in 1660, popularizing its use for recreational boats. Over time, "yacht" shed its militaristic connotations and became associated with luxury sailing.

Examples
  1. They spent the weekend sailing their yacht along the coast.

  2. The billionaire docked his yacht in Monaco during the Grand Prix.

  3. She won the regatta with a custom-built racing yacht.

  4. The harbor was filled with gleaming white yachts.

  5. Learning to crew a yacht requires teamwork and skill.