Also spelled out-riggers
Meanings
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1
noun
a float attached parallel to a canoe or boat by projecting struts to improve stability
The outrigger kept the narrow canoe steady in the breaking waves.
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2
noun
a projecting beam, frame, or support extending from the side of a vessel, vehicle, crane, or building
The crew extended the crane's outrigger before lifting the load.
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3
noun
an outrigger canoe or similar boat fitted with a stabilizing float
They crossed the lagoon in a small sailing outrigger.
Thesaurus
Etymology
A modification of earlier outligger under the influence of rig, formed from out- + ligger, 'something that lies or projects outward.' The nautical support sense broadened to stabilizing structures on cranes, vehicles, and buildings.