kayak
UK[ˈkaɪ.æk]US[ˈkaɪ.æk]
n
a type of light, narrow boat, typically pointed at both ends, that is propelled by a double-bladed paddle.
v
to travel in or use a kayak.
Etymology
the word 'kayak' entered english in the mid-18th century as a direct borrowing from the greenlandic inuit language, where 'qajaq' referred to a man's hunting boat. it is a classic example of a loanword where the object and its name were adopted together from a specific culture. the design, a light, covered canoe propelled with a double-bladed paddle, was integral to the inuit way of life in the arctic regions. the term has remained remarkably stable in form and meaning as it transitioned into international use, now denoting both the traditional vessel and its modern recreational and sporting counterparts.
Analysis
this word is a direct loanword; its spelling and form are borrowed as a whole unit from its source language.
Examples
we paddled the kayak across the calm lake at dawn.
she learned to kayak on the river during her summer vacation.
the inflatable kayak is easy to transport and store.