Definitions for: Pontoon


[n] a float supporting a seaplane
[n] a floating structure (as a flat-bottomed boat) that serves as a dock or to support a bridge



Webster (1913) Definition: Pon*toon", n. [F. ponton (cf. It. pontone), from L.
ponto, -onis, fr. pons, pontis, a bridge, perhaps originally,
a way, path: cf. Gr. ? path, Skr. path, pathi, panthan. Cf.
Punt a boat.]
1. (Mil.) A wooden flat-bottomed boat, a metallic cylinder,
or a frame covered with canvas, India rubber, etc.,
forming a portable float, used in building bridges quickly
for the passage of troops.

2. (Naut.) A low, flat vessel, resembling a barge, furnished
with cranes, capstans, and other machinery, used in
careening ships, raising weights, drawing piles, etc.,
chiefly in the Mediterranean; a lighter.

Pontoon bridge, a bridge formed with pontoons.

Pontoon train, the carriages of the pontoons, and the
materials they carry for making a pontoon bridge.

Note: The French spelling ponton often appears in scientific
works, but pontoon is more common form.

See Also: amphibian, amphibious aircraft, barge, bateau bridge, flatboat, float, floating bridge, hoy, lighter, pontoon bridge

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