rudder

/ˈrʌdər/ (American pronunciation)

Origin

From Old English rōþor, related to Old Norse róðr (oar, steering oar)

Meanings

1. A flat piece of wood or metal hinged vertically near the stern of a boat or ship for steering
2. A means of guiding or directing something

Example Sentences

1. The captain adjusted the rudder to steer the ship through the narrow channel.
2. Without a rudder, the sailboat drifted aimlessly in the open sea.
3. His father acted as a rudder in his life, guiding him through difficult decisions.

Related Words

• Verb: rudder (rare)
• Adjective: rudderless
• Synonyms: helm, tiller, wheel, guide

Memorization Trick

Think of a RUDDer as the Rear Unit that Directs and Drives a boat. It's at the rear and helps steer, just like the last two letters "er" steer the word itself.