Dictionary:

outrigger

  (out'rĭg'ər)

1. Nautical.
   1. A projecting beam or spar run out from the side of a vessel to help in securing the masts or from a mast to be used in extending a rope or sail.
   2. A long thin float attached parallel to a seagoing canoe by projecting spars as a means of preventing it from capsizing.
   3. A vessel fitted with such a float or beam.
   4. A support for an oarlock projecting from the side of a racing shell.
   5. A racing shell fitted with such a support.
2. A projecting frame extending laterally beyond the main structure of a vehicle, aircraft, or machine to stabilize the structure or support an extending part.

n. 1. a beam, spar, or framework projecting from or over the side of a ship or boat.

2. a float or secondary hull fixed parallel to a canoe or other boat to stabilize it.

3. a boat fitted with such a structure.

See the Introduction, Abbreviations and Pronunciation for further details.

A beam at the ridge of a roof that extends beyond the end wall of the building to serve as a support for hoisting tackle or the like; also called an outlooker or lookout.

This article is about the outrigger, part of a boat. For the hotel chain, see Outrigger Hotels & Resorts.

Outrigger on a contemporary Hawaiian sailing canoe

An outrigger is a part of a boat's rigging which is rigid and extends beyond the side or gunwale of a boat.

In an outrigger canoe or bangca and in sailboats such as the proa, an outrigger is a thin, long, solid, hull used to stabilise an inherently unstable main hull. The outrigger is positioned rigidly and parallel to the main hull so that the main hull is less likely to capsize. If only one outrigger is used on a vessel, its weight reduces the tendency to capsize in one direction and its buoyancy reduces the tendency in the other direction.

In a rowing boat or galley, an outrigger (or just rigger) is a triangular metal frame that holds the oarlock (into which the oar is slotted) away from the gunwale to optimize leverage. Harry Clasper (1812–1870), a British professional rower, is credited as the inventor.

In fishing, an outrigger is a pole or series of poles that allow boats to troll more lines in the water without tangling and simulates a school of fish.

See also

• Outrigger canoe
• Outrigger canoe racing
• Sailing canoe
• Training wheels

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