oarlock

[awr-lok, ohr-] /ˈɔrˌlɒk, ˈoʊr-/

noun

any of various devices providing a pivot for an oar in rowing, especially a swiveling, crutchlike or ringlike metal device projecting above a gunwale.

Also called rowlock.

Origin

before 1100; Middle English orlok, Old English ārloc. See oar, lock¹

British Dictionary definitions for oarlock

oarlock

/ˈɔːˌlɒk/

noun

(US & Canadian) a swivelling device attached to the gunwale of a boat that holds an oar in place and acts as a fulcrum during rowing Also called rowlock

Word Origin and History for oarlock

mid-14c., from oar + lock (n.1).