rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryboomProjecting pole or arm
noun

boom

A long projecting pole or arm on equipment or a vessel.

The crane's boom extends over the load.

Etymology
boomDutchtree or beam

Dutch boom means tree and also a beam or pole. The projecting equipment part retains that long, rigid shape, whether it supports a sail or another load.

More examples

  • The microphone hung from a boom.
  • Several booms projected from the vessels.
  • The crew lowered the boom beside the sail.

Forms

boom · booms

Similar words

spar
A pole used in a vessel's rigging.
arm
A projecting support on machinery more generally.