Jetfoil

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of high-speed watercraft that utilizes jet propulsion for swift movement over water's surface
2. A fast vessel equipped with jets that enhances its ability to glide efficiently on water
3. A marine craft designed to travel quickly by employing jet-based technology to minimize water resistance

Etymology: The name "jetfoil" is a deliberate brand name, a blend of two words that describe how the boat moves. "Jet" refers to the water-jet propulsion system that pushes the craft forward, while "foil" refers to the hydrofoils, underwater wing-like fins that lift the hull clear of the water at speed, so the boat rides above the waves rather than ploughing through them. The word was coined as a trademark by Boeing, the American aircraft manufacturer, which built a line of these high-speed passenger ferries. Because the name was a proprietary product name rather than a term that grew out of common speech, it has the feel of a manufacturer's invention, and it followed the same pattern of blending everyday words that companies used to name new technologies.

Synonyms: hydrofoil, fast ferry, foil boat, high-speed ferry