gangway
GANG-way
/ˈɡæŋ.weɪ/
A movable bridge, ramp, or walkway used to board or exit a ship; also used as a command to clear a passage.
Describes physical physical structures bridging ship and shore, or an imperative shout to make room in a crowd.
The story behind the word. Derived from Old English 'gangweg' meaning 'a passage for going'. The word 'gang' originally meant 'a journey' or 'a walking path' long before it meant a group of people.
Word relationships
- gangplank: 'Gangplank' usually refers specifically to a simple wooden plank, whereas 'gangway' can be a larger covered structure.
- boarding bridge: 'Boarding bridge' is modern aviation/maritime technical terminology.
Commonly confused with
- runway: 'Runway' is used for aircraft landing strips, not ship boarding bridges.
Word family
- gangways (noun): Plural form of gangway.
Collocations
- lower the gangway
- gangway ladder
- board via the gangway
- clear the gangway
Example sentences
- "Passengers walked carefully down the gangway onto the sunny pier below." Maritime travel narrative
- "The sailor shouted 'Gangway!' as he rushed down the narrow corridor carrying heavy equipment." Shipboard command
Memory hook
A WAY for a GANG of people to walk onto a ship. GANG-WAY: path for the walking gang.
When not to use
Do not use for permanent indoor staircases or highway walkways on land.
Fun facts
- In naval etiquette, the quarterdeck area near the main gangway is formally saluted upon stepping aboard.
Related words
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