'Towboat' definitions:

Definition of 'towboat'

From: WordNet
noun
A powerful small boat designed to pull or push larger ships [syn: tugboat, tug, towboat, tower]

Definition of 'Towboat'

From: GCIDE
  • Towboat \Tow"boat`\, n.
  • 1. A vessel constructed for being towed, as a canal boat. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A steamer used for towing other vessels; a tug. [1913 Webster]

Definition of 'towboat'

From: GCIDE
  • Tug \Tug\, n.
  • 1. A pull with the utmost effort, as in the athletic contest called tug of war; a supreme effort. [1913 Webster]
  • At the tug he falls, Vast ruins come along, rent from the smoking walls. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. A sort of vehicle, used for conveying timber and heavy articles. [Prov. Eng.] --Halliwell. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Naut.) A small, powerful steamboat used to tow vessels; -- called also steam tug, tugboat, and towboat. [1913 Webster]
  • 4. A trace, or drawing strap, of a harness. [1913 Webster]
  • 5. (Mining.) An iron hook of a hoisting tub, to which a tackle is affixed. [1913 Webster]
  • Tug iron, an iron hook or button to which a tug or trace may be attached, as on the shaft of a wagon. [1913 Webster]