paddle
1 of 2verb/'pædəl/
Forms:paddles,paddling,paddled,paddled
1
to move a watercraft through the water using a handheld implement with a broad blade
- The kayaker skillfully paddled through the white-water rapids.
- As they approached the shore, the canoeists paddled gently to slow down.
- The experienced athlete effortlessly paddled across the calm lake.
- In the serene mangrove swamp, the ecotourists paddled silently.
- Facing a headwind, the rowing team paddled with determination.
2
to use a flat, typically broad, implement to stir or agitate something
transitive- The chef decided to paddle the batter vigorously to ensure a smooth and lump-free consistency.
- o evenly distribute the ingredients, the baker gently paddled the dough.
- The farmer used a long-handled paddle to stir the contents of the large kettle over the open fire.
- In pottery class, the artist carefully paddled the clay to shape it into a smooth and uniform vessel.
- To achieve the right consistency, the artisan decided to paddle the chocolate mixture with a spatula.
3
to administer physical punishment by striking someone with a flat, often wooden implement
transitive- In some traditional schools, teachers used to paddle students as a disciplinary measure.
- After repeated warnings, the coach decided to paddle the athlete for violating team rules.
- In certain cultures, parents might choose to paddle their children for serious disobedience.
- The strict nun would not hesitate to paddle any student caught breaking the rules.
- During the early years of the school, it was common for students to be paddled for talking back to teachers.
4
(of animals) to move through water with short, rapid strokes
- The ducklings paddled behind their mother.
- Startled by the approach of the boat, the swan elegantly paddled away.
- The otters playfully paddled in the shallow stream, chasing each other and diving for small fish.
- As the river current picked up, the beavers paddled skillfully to transport logs and branches to their dam.
- The platypus surfaced briefly, then paddled beneath the water's surface in search of aquatic prey.
5
to walk in an unsteady and often wobbly manner
- The toddler eagerly paddled across the living room.
- With a proud smile, the parents watched their little one paddle towards them.
- With each step, the young explorer paddled through the garden.
- As the birthday cake appeared, the toddler couldn't contain the excitement and paddled towards it.
- After a few attempts, the baby began to paddle around the playpen.
6
to lightly splash or move one's hands or feet in water
- On a hot summer day, children love to paddle in the shallow end of the pool.
- As they strolled along the beach, the couple decided to paddle in the surf.
- The toddlers giggled with delight as they paddled in the kiddie pool.
- As the sun set, friends gathered at the lake to paddle in the water.
- At the lakeside cabin, guests often choose to paddle in the calm waters.
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