paddle
UK[ˈpæd(ə)l]US[ˈpæd(ə)l]
n
a short pole with a wide, flat part at one or both ends, used for moving a small boat through water
v
to move a small boat through water using a paddle
v
to walk with no shoes or socks on in shallow water
n
a wide, flat, wooden tool used for mixing food or for hitting someone as a punishment
Etymology
the word 'paddle' first appeared in late middle english, with its origin shrouded in some uncertainty. it is most plausibly derived from the low german word 'padeln', meaning 'to tramp about', which itself may be related to the root 'pad', suggesting a sense of treading or patting. this etymological journey from a verb describing a tramping motion logically evolved to denote the similar sweeping action used to propel a boat. over time, the word's meaning expanded by analogy to include the tool used for that action, as well as the act of walking in shallow water, preserving the core idea of a broad, patting motion.
Analysis
the word 'paddle' is a simplex word of uncertain origin, likely from a low germanic source. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable morphemes in modern english.
Examples
she dipped the paddle into the calm lake and pushed the canoe forward.
we decided to paddle down the river for a few hours.
the children loved to paddle at the edge of the sea, feeling the sand between their toes.