rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypontoonFloating support
noun

pontoon

pahn-TOON/pɑːnˈtuːn/

A hollow float or floating structure that supports weight on water.

Two pontoons support the floating dock.

A small floating dock viewed from a low three-quarter angle, with its deck visibly supported by two large buoyant pontoons.
Etymology
pontoonLatinflat-bottomed boat

The original flat-bottomed boat served as a floating support for a temporary bridge. The modern sense focuses on that supporting function rather than on the boat itself.

In context

Len's Cove Lessons in Boating4:24
pontoon boats are extremely safe and particularly the newer ones with triple pontoons and larger diameter will feel very buoyant and very stable
Common Problems with Pontoon Boats

More examples

  • The aircraft rested on two long pontoons.
  • The crew checked each pontoon for leaks.
  • A temporary pontoon bridge crossed the river.

Forms

pontoon · pontoons

Similar words

float
Float is general; a pontoon is a substantial hollow floating support.
barge
A barge is a flat-bottomed vessel; a pontoon often supports a structure rather than carrying cargo independently.