paddle

verb

Definition of paddlenext
1
as in to kayak
to move a boat by means of oars I like to paddle on the river for exercise and relaxation

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in to lick
to strike repeatedly back in those times it was acceptable for teachers to paddle misbehaving students

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of paddle At Monarch Bay Beach Club, the coastline becomes an extension of the wellness journey, where guests can paddle across calm waters, learn to surf with expert guidance, or simply spend the afternoon immersed in the restorative presence of the ocean. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 31 July 2026 Winter visitors flock here for aurora displays, while summer brings nearly endless daylight and the chance to paddle rivers, visit gold rush attractions, and soak in nearby natural hot springs. — Abby Price, Travel + Leisure, 30 July 2026 Those looking to paddle or cruise the shoreline can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis from local outfitters, including A1 Rentals. — Gabi De La Rosa, Southern Living, 29 July 2026 In 2025, Miami University in Ohio suspended its Kappa Alpha Psi chapter through 2040 after an investigation found prospective new members were subjected to physical abuse, including paddling and caning. — Grethel Aguila, Miami Herald, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for paddle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for paddle
  1. kayak
  2. lick
  3. row
  4. lash
  5. canoe
  6. whip
  7. oar
  8. hide
Verb
  • From late September through October, visitors can stroll the Reno Riverwalk, explore Rancho San Rafael Park or venture to nearby North Lake Tahoe to kayak crystal-clear waters and hike Monkey Rock for sweeping lake and foliage views.
    — Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026
  • Test your skills at paddleboarding with Anchored Soul or kayak your way through the coastline with a rental from Riverside Paddle & Row.
    — Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of kayak
Verb
  • Later, a woman protractedly licks blue ice cream from a cone, her attempts thwarted by ferocious gusts of wind and sand.
    — Matilda Hague, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Griffin diligently washes his hands after his dogs lick them, especially before picking up a slice of pizza.
    — Angela Haupt, Time, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of lick
Verb
  • Yes, the automaker’s famed dual-clutch PDK remains the way to go if pure speed is what a driver craves, but those who feel that rowing through the gears adds to the experience can now choose to upgrade the model with the MT package.
    — Bryan Campbell, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2026
  • The injured passenger was moved to row 12, where a passenger who is a doctor tended to him.
    — Josh Funk, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of row
Verb
  • Lala weakened from a hurricane to a tropical storm Sunday after lashing the state without making landfall.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Holmes attempted to ask a follow-up, but Trump lashed out at her.
    — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of lash
Verb
  • Before tucking into an unforgettable meal, head to the Pickering Creek Audubon Center to hike or canoe around the marsh, or spend a couple of hours exploring the historic downtown area.
    — Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 16 June 2026
  • On the surface level, there are over 80 miles of trails, with varying degrees of difficulty and opportunities to canoe, kayak, or boat on the Green River.
    — Bailey Berg, Forbes.com, 15 June 2026
Definition of canoe
Verb
  • Stidham whipped a pass to Pat Bryant on a comeback route for 15 yards on the game’s first play.
    — Nick Kosmider, New York Times, 15 Aug. 2026
  • The team – last minute – got the recipe, sourced quahogs and whipped them up.
    — Moira McCarthy, Boston Herald, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of whip
Verb
  • For centuries, Vikings navigated these waters by sail and oar; today, ferries and charter boats offer comfortable, scenic access to the islands.
    — Caroline Van Hemert, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2025
Definition of oar
Verb
  • His brother was stuffing bricks of cash in multiple places and would even wrap the money in plastic before hiding it in spaghetti sauce jars.
    — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 20 Aug. 2026
  • Paul Robinson is accused of hiding a safe containing drugs and cash.
    — Jennifer Borrasso, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of hide

Browse Nearby Words

paddings
paddle
paddleboat
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Paddle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/paddle. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on paddle

Nglish: Translation of paddle for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about paddle

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